The return of geopolitical risk? – what to watch over the remainder of 2021 | AMP Capital

The return of geopolitical risk? – what to watch over the remainder of 2021 Key points Geopolitical issues generate much interest but don’t necessarily have a significant impact on markets. But geopolitical risks are higher than prior to the GFC reflecting three big themes: a populist backlash against economic rationalist policies; the falling relative power of the US; and the polarising impact of social media. After a lull following the transition to President Biden, key …

US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields

US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields   Key points US protests are only an issue for investment markets if they significantly impact economic activity. Global and Australian recovery will boost bond yields and there is good reason to believe that (after yet another false ending) the now nearly 40-year super cycle decline in bond yields may be at or close to over. But the end of the bond bull market is likely to …

Managing retirement in the COVID-19 environment

Managing retirement in the COVID-19 environment Investment markets are experiencing significant volatility, and for those planning for or heading into retirement, there’s limited certainty at a time when you likely need it most. Hosted by Lara Bourguignon – Managing Director, Superannuation, Retirement and Platforms at AMP, this webinar is delivered by Darren Beesley – Head of Retirement Solutions at AMP Capital, who gives his perspective on the impact of COVID-19 on retirement plans and the …

5 common financial mistakes to avoid during a crisis | Money & Life

5 common financial mistakes to avoid during a crisis The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is playing havoc with finances for many households. Fran Hughes CFP®, Head of Financial Solutions at Nexia Perth offers five ways to limit the impact at this challenging time. With Australia recording a spike in the unemployment rate of 6.2% due to the coronavirus, it’s only natural that households feel under enormous financial pressure and face uncertainty about their future. Perhaps …

Australian house prices starting to fall – collapse likely averted but expect more weakness ahead | AMP Capital

  Australian house prices starting to fall – collapse likely averted but expect more weakness ahead   Key points Australia capital city home prices fell -0.5% in May. Significant policy support & the earlier reopening of the economy have made our worst-case scenario for a 20% decline in average Australian house prices unlikely. However, our base case is for home prices to fall around 5-10%, as “true” unemployment will remain high, government support measures and …

10 medium to longer-term implications from the coronavirus shock | AMP Capital

10 medium to longer-term implications from the coronavirus shock Key points Key medium to longer-term implications flowing from the coronavirus shock are: lower for longer interest rates; a further blow to globalisation; another leg up in the US/China cold war; bigger government and public debt; a long-term risk of higher inflation; consumer & investor caution; faster embrace of technology; bad for airlines; another test for the Eurozone; and lower immigration. Some of these will constrain …

AMP Capital Core Infrastructure Fund update – Webinar | AMP Capital

INFRASTRUCTURE AMP Capital Core Infrastructure Fund update – Webinar 19 May, 2020 Within the infrastructure space, we are seeing an impact on the performance of some categories of assets, while others have proved to be resilient. In our view, some of the distinguishing characteristics of the infrastructure sector – assets that provide essential services, lower volatility and reliable long-term revenue streams – indicate that a well-diversified infrastructure portfolio should be well-placed to withstand a downturn …

Why it’s important to think about insurance ahead of retirement

  Finding the right level of insurance cover is important when you’re thinking about retirement. If retirement’s coming up on your horizon, the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) may have thrown a warehouse-sized rack of spanners in your planning.   It makes sense to concentrate on things you can control, such as insurance. Too-high premiums can chew away at the foundations of your savings, at a time when they’re more important than ever. Under-insure and one …

How to protect your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic | Money & Life

If you’re feeling worried about the impact of COVID-19 on your financial wellbeing, you’re not alone. CoreData reports that 81% of Australians are fearful about the potential impact of the pandemic on their personal finances and the broader economy. While it is a challenging time in many respects, the added burden of financial stress can be especially hard on your mental health. Severe financial stress can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression, even triggering …

The Coronavirus pandemic and the economy – a Q&A from an investment perspective | AMP Capital

The Coronavirus pandemic and the economy – a Q&A from an investment perspective Key points Significant government support is essential to enable parts of the economy to successfully hibernate. This will be financed by borrowing and is affordable given Australia’s relatively low public debt and low borrowing rates. Central bank support to keep financial markets functioning properly is also essential and quantitative easing is part of this. We are more likely to see a U-shaped …