Australia is experiencing a slowdown in population growth as fertility rates continue to decline, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2061, the number of Australians aged 65 and above is set to double to 8.9 million, representing almost a quarter of the total population. The growth rate is even higher among the 85 and […]
Market Update | February 2020
The Pulse • Markets enjoyed a reprieve from the US-China trade war, although the issue is expected to remain live as we near the US presidential election in November. • Geopolitical tensions gave way to the outbreak of the coronavirus, resulting in travel restrictions and quarantine measures imposed by the Chinese authorities.
Market Update | January 2020
The Pulse Both the US and China are optimistic that a ‘phase one’ trade deal will be reached, but subsequent negotiations will likely prove more difficult. Tension between the US and Iran following the US assassination of Iranian general Soleimani has left markets on edge. The devastation from the Australian bushfires will have a significant […]
Market Update | December 2019
The Pulse Markets have reacted favourably to the prospect of a ‘phase one’ trade deal between the US and China, which would involve a roll-back of tariffs. Positive developments on the trade front would come at the right time for the US economy, which has suffered from a deterioration in business confidence and investment. The […]
Market update – September 2018
The Pulse Trade tensions between the US and China are still a source of significant uncertainty for financial markets. Political risks and trade uncertainty have seen a vicious cycle of selling in emerging market currencies as investors react to contagion fears. US shares rose in August on the back of positive company earnings results, while […]