European Central Bank steps up stimulus
Mario Draghi announced on 6 November that the ECB is prepared to inject 1tr euros to stimulate the eurozone in a bid to stave off deflation.
EU slashes eurozone economic forecasts
The European Commission cut its economic outlook for the eurozone on Tuesday, predicting it would grow only 1.1 per cent in 2015, down from a forecast of 1.7 per cent just six months ago.
Our Investment Commentary for Q3 2014 (1 July – 30 September)
Given that the third quarter of the year was a period plagued with geopolitical tension, the FTSE World index delivered a surprising gain of 2.7%.
New Changes to Intestacy Law
From 1 October 2014 the rules of intestacy have been simplified with the Inheritance and Trustees’ Powers Act 2014.
Italian economy on path to reform to escape stagnation
Italy faces enormous challenges. The Italian economy is in its third recession since 2008, having contracted for the second consecutive quarter by 0.2% in Q2 2014.
Chancellor abolishes 55% tax on pension funds at death
From April 2015, People with defined contribution pension savings will no longer have to worry about their pension savings being taxed at 55% on death.
Market Commentary – August 2014
August saw an increased divergence between Japan and the Eurozone, and the US and UK. This will be reflected by the monetary policy stance of central banks in the coming months.
Market Commentary July 2014
July marked the start of the third quarter of the year and, despite fears of an escalation in political tension, markets have remained very resilient. The FTSE All-World index has risen by approximately 1% this month and both US and UK markets have experienced modest growth.
Our Investment Commentary for Q2 2014 (1 April – 30 June)
Following a volatile first quarter of 2014, Q2 has offered a much more positive outlook, with the FTSE100 gaining 2.36% as opposed to contracting by 1.26% in the period January to March.
May 2014 Market Commentary
Throughout May, most asset classes experienced a welcome reduction in volatility.