In the last couple of months of 2023, global economic data surprises had been falling into neutral (zero) territory suggesting expectations were no longer being exceeded.

December rounded out a strong 2023 for most financial markets with an additional rally into year end.

The less sense it makes, the better.

“The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” – Leo Tolstoy

If an event or trend occurs at the same time each year, it is referred to as “seasonality”.

Sultry heat and then ominous calm: the usual portents of a ferocious storm. In financial markets too, 2023 continues to heat up.

The busy bees of the second quarter were undoubtedly the world’s central banks, who were simultaneously raising interest rates and warning about future increases.

Like wine, term deposits help you to sleep deeply, but they can cause longer-term headaches for investment portfolios. Short-dated investment-grade corporate bonds can be a useful remedy.

Five strategies to stay in the saddle during a bear market.

The oldest debate in investing is centred on Value vs Growth investment styles. It’s not as intense as the State of Origin, but it can be heated.

Here at Human Financial we’re always asking ourselves, “Which is the best asset mix to achieve our investment outcomes?”

Finance professionals have a horrible tendency to speak in financial code.