Last Tuesday, the RBA lifted its cash rate by +0.50% to 0.85%, the biggest rate hike in 22 years and the first back-to-back rate hike since May 2010.
It’s clear that ultra-accommodative policy settings (low rates) are no longer needed as consumer spending and record low unemployment lead to price increases (inflation) across many goods and services.
The past few weeks have been challenging for investors as central banks embarked on increasing policy rates in the face of persistent inflation.
The MSCI Equity World Index has now declined more than 16.6% year to date (YTD), whilst the Global Aggregate Bond Index has declined more than 10.5% YTD.
Understandably, the war in Ukraine has overshadowed a strong ASX Report Period.
Analysts displayed growing optimism as Australian businesses emerged from the omicron wave better than feared. This optimism translated into upgraded FY22 earnings from 13.6% to 14.2%, led by materials and energy sectors, the beneficiaries of global inflation and geopolitical risks.
Below are our early observations regarding the current crisis in Ukraine.
We are monitoring the situation closely and hearing from a range of industry experts to understand the impact as it evolves.
Ultimately, short-term outcomes are difficult to predict. This reinforces the benefits of having a balanced, long-term, valuation driven approach to portfolio management.
Below is a brief update following the recent period of heightened volatility.
Next Friday, we’ll share a detailed view after our Q1-2022 Advisory Board meeting.
We have seen an increase in market volatility this week, driven by uncertainty over Chinese property and U.S. central bank policy changes.
