This edition of Investment Perspectives brings together a broad range of insights on the forces shaping global markets and portfolio construction. It reviews February’s market performance across developed and emerging equities, examines the role of governance beyond boardrooms, and explores how compounding and dividend reinvestment can support long‑term outcomes. The edition also looks at the role of property, gold and emerging market equities in diversified portfolios, considers the drivers behind renewed interest in these asset classes, and challenges assumptions around AI’s impact on global hiring trends. Together, the articles provide practical context and investment thinking to support informed adviser conversations in an evolving market environment.
Global investment market review: Feb 26
In February, the MSCI ACWI Index, a representative measure of global equities across developed and emerging markets, rose 3.4% in...
Beyond the ten at the top
Eva Cairns, Head of Responsible Investment, explores why good governance depends on more than just a proactive board, and contends...
Paying dividends
Albert Einstein reputedly referred to compound interest as `the 8th wonder of the world'. Equity dividend reinvestment has a similar...
REITs or direct property funds?
Explore the differences between REITs and direct property funds, including liquidity, volatility, income and how advisers use them in multi‑asset...
Understanding gold and its role in portfolios
Gold has surged to record highs amid geopolitical tension and rising reserve demand. Discover what’s driving the rally and how...
Why Emerging Market Equities now?
Discover what’s driving renewed strength in emerging market equities, the outlook for 2026, and where opportunities may lie across regions...
Is AI really behind a global hiring slowdown?
AI is widely blamed for the global hiring slowdown, but the data tells a different story. Explore the real drivers...
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