Global share prices fell in March, but the month saw a strengthening of the US dollar against the pound. Not surprisingly, oil prices rose with fears that inflation may spike as a result. We also consider further economic ramifications of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

February saw global stock markets climb - though notably, US shares prices fell. Concern over the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and the sizeable investments by major tech companies into AI infrastructure, weighed heavily on US stocks. We also consider possible economic ramifications of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Stock markets reached new highs in January, but US shares continued to lag Europe and Asia. Sentiment remained optimistic, the pound strengthened, and bond markets held steady. Prices for gold and silver reached new peaks as international tensions rose. 

In this update we reflect on 2025, outlining what’s worked and what hasn’t, what needs to change and what doesn’t. We set out the conclusions we have reached and our confident outlook for 2026. 

A monthly market update from our investment team. 

A monthly market update from our investment team. 

Ahead of the upcoming budget, journalists will fill many column inches speculating what the chancellor may or may not do, should or shouldn’t do. Instead of speculating, here’s what the government’s finances actually look like, and a helpful rule of thumb.

A monthly market update from our investment team. 

A monthly market update from our investment team. 

A monthly market update from our investment team.