Market & Portfolio Update - May 2018
Market & Portfolio Update - May 2018
Global share markets added another 1% in May, amidst a background of solid economic growth spiced up with news of political instability in Italy. While change of governments can create volatility, ultimately markets are driven by economic growth and growth in companies’ earnings.
The change in Italian Government is the latest round of political uncertainty, and adds to a long line of changes following Britain’s vote to leave Europe almost two years ago. However, these have all turned out to be just bumps in the road – the Global Economy has grown by around US$10 trillion over the past two years!
New Zealand shares performed solidly, ahead of global markets in general for the month and with Booster’s NZ share investments up almost 20% over the past year. Our holdings in Restaurant Brands and aged care provider Summerset have particularly helped this result, with each up around 70%.
Disclaimer: This article has been prepared for the purpose of providing general information, without taking into consideration any particular investor’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Any opinions contained in it are held as at the report date and are subject to change without notice.
Lifetime Book Club: The Green Mile by Stephen King
Sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t the ones that scare us. They’re the ones that move us.
Stephen King might be best known for horror, but The Green Mile is a story of humanity, compassion, and courage in the face of unthinkable circumstances. Set in a 1930s prison, it follows Paul Edgecombe, a death row officer, and John Coffey, a man with extraordinary empathy and an inexplicable gift.
The Growing Divide: Why Private Medical Claims Are Surging in New Zealand
It feels like there is another headline about our public health system being under pressure every week. Long waitlists, staff shortages, and hospitals struggling to keep up. It is no surprise that more Kiwis are turning to private healthcare to get the treatment they need and faster.