Market Wrap - December 2020
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The US election had earlier dominated attention. Donald Trump’s reluctance to
concede diverted attention from possible policy changes under the new Biden administration, but this will likely become an increasing focus
for investors in the months ahead.
Credit spreads narrowed sharply, both in Australia and overseas. This reflected optimism around the vaccines and a potential return to
‘normality’ in 2020, and supported returns from corporate bonds domestically and internationally.
Many investors become concerned when volatility occurs in global financial markets – particularly about the impact on their superannuation and other investments. In times like these, it is important to understand the causes of market movements and how to minimise your risk.
Prices on everyday essentials like food, petrol and medicine have increased significantly, impacting us all. Managing these price hikes is even more difficult when you’re living on a fixed income. We unpack how we got here and set out some things you can do to increase your buying power.
Inflationary forces continued to intensify in key regions, which suggested inter- est rates could be raised more quickly and more aggressively than previously anticipated. The likelihood of rising borrowing costs also appeared to spook equity markets, which performed poorly over the month.
