Investing

After a positive start to 2023, global markets and investors are preparing for some further stock market volatility. Here, we look at what’s behind equity market fluctuations this week and provide an update from the Nutmeg investment team. 

Clients invested in the Nutmeg Smart Alpha portfolios, powered by J.P. Morgan Asset Management, should benefit from a change which brings broader, active exposure to the domestic equity market.  

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled the government’s Budget today, which outlined its plans for spending and revenue raising from the next tax year and beyond. There were some significant changes to pensions announced, which could have an impact on the way you plan for retirement.

Look beyond the disquieting headlines around the health of the UK economy, and some of our largest multinational companies are thriving.  

In this month’s investor update, James McManus, chief investment officer, answers questions around the impact of stubborn inflation, the anniversary of the start of the conflict in Ukraine, the latest Brexit deal, and of course, Nutmeg portfolio performance during February. 

The last few years have certainly provided all of us with financial challenges and reasons to reconsider how we think about money. Whether it is job uncertainty created as a result of the pandemic or more recent speculation of a recession, spiralling inflation or the ongoing rising cost of living putting pressure on household income, financial stability has been brought into sharp focus. However, according to new insight from Nutmeg, one positive legacy is the significant shift in the attitudes and behaviours of women towards their money, and more importantly, their investments.  

Our helpful guide explains how to choose an ISA, the different types of ISAs, and how to make the most of your ISA allowance ahead of the tax year end.

Transferring or consolidating your ISAs could give you a clearer picture of your wealth, better value for money, and less admin in the long run.

When was the last time you thought about your future self?

The US dollar is the world’s reserve currency. It facilitates global trade, is integral to international business and supports the functioning of the broader economy. The euro, the Japanese yen and pound sterling are also major currencies, but none reign supreme as the dollar, which accounts for around 60% of central bank foreign currency reserves.

European markets have had a strong start to the year. The MSCI EMU index gained almost 10% in January, as investors returned to the region, recession fears receded, and market optimism rose. However, Europe may continue to face significant headwinds throughout the year and beyond.  

Last year was difficult for emerging market equities, but there are indications that performance could improve in 2023, and the case for long-term allocation to this asset class remains undimmed.