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2018 Global stock markets: The story so far
Index | 2018 Change |
FTSE 100 | -0.7% |
FTSE All-Share | -0.5% |
Dow Jones Industrial | +7.0% |
Standard & Poor’s 500 | +9.0% |
Nikkei 225 | +6.0% |
Euro Stoxx 50 (€) | -3.0% |
Shanghai Composite | -14.7% |
MSCI Emerging Markets (£) | -6.2% |
The third quarter of 2018 especially presented mixed results for global stock markets. In the US, shares have continued to power ahead, despite another rise in interest rates in late September and Mr Trump’s trade battles. It has been a different story in emerging markets, which have suffered from two key US factors: a strong dollar and those rising interest rates.
Japan has also performed well, with the Nikkei 225 reaching a 27-year high at the end of September. Meanwhile, Europe ended September on a down note, with worries about Italian government borrowing resurfacing just as the month closed. And for all the traumas of Brexit, the UK is marginally ahead of the rest of Europe across the first nine months of the year.
The mixed performances of the main markets serve as a reminder of the importance of asset allocation, and the dangers of focusing too heavily on the home market.
The final quarter of 2018 could provide a similar lesson, as another rise in US interest rates is expected, further supporting the dollar. The Brexit negotiations are also entering the final stages, which could have unpredictable effects on markets.
As ever, Pembroke’s Investment Committee – which actively manages the 9 year old range of model investment portfolios which are the engine of our Wealth Management proposition – are working in partnership with our preferred Investment experts, LGT Vestra LLP, to ensure that our portfolios are positioned to reflect the unfolding global situation.
If you would like to hear more about the way we work and to discuss your investment options please get in touch.
Please Note: The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.