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Although Fed officials are sending mixed messages about rate cuts, the trend demonstrates that we are moving into a rate cutting cycle.

Offshore markets are off to a good start for 2024, driven by rate cut expectations and IT tailwinds. Douglas Investments’ portfolios have benefitted from this move, based on our technology bias and strong earnings from some of our preferred single stocks, however, expectations may be elevated resulting in high valuations.

The start of 2024 witnessed strength in the US equity market, speculation around the timing of rate cuts and growing geopolitical tensions.

November witnessed robust market performance, fueled by strong US equities, and a notable dovish shift in central bank policies amid disinflationary signals, setting the stage for a potentially optimistic close to the year.

October marked a challenging month for markets characterized by significant volatility, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, fluctuating bond markets, and cautious earnings outlook.

In a challenging September marked by global market declines due to higher interest rate concerns, geopolitical tensions, and the Fed's hawkish stance, investors are cautiously adjusting portfolios while keeping an eye on inflation and upcoming data points.

In August 2023, global markets faced bearish trends driven by rising bond yields, with notable impacts from China's economic challenges and the expansion of BRICS membership.

In July, markets experienced robust performance driven by lower inflation, positive economic data and strong tech sector returns, while geopolitical tensions persist.

June witnessed robust growth in US markets, geopolitical tensions globally, and South Africa grappling with headwinds.

May witnessed market volatility, AI enthusiasm, US debt ceiling concerns, and South Africa's economic struggles, with a global economic slowdown anticipated as central banks tighten policies.

April witnessed market focus on inflation and central bank rate hikes amid earnings season, with the US displaying optimism, contrasting with high fixed-income volatility.