Author: Darren Foster

2019 saw growth slow, recession fears increase and the US trade wars ramp up, but solid investment returns as monetary policy eased, bond yields fell and demand for unlisted assets remained strong.

By taking charge of your investment selection and asset allocation, there may be the perception that you could outperform your retail or other super fund.

Investors have faced a low-growth environment with low yield for some time now and this does not appear to be changing anytime soon.

If the assets test is harsher, you should not lose sight of the fact that any reduction in your assets means there are fewer assets for you to call upon if required.

Unfortunately, there is no magic tonic for the situation and retirees should be wary of anyone claiming to have one.

Put simply, protecting your greatest asset – your ability to earn an income – just makes good sense.

While divorce rates have fallen in Australia in recent years, there is one age group where it’s becoming more common.

A fulfilling retirement isn’t just about money, it’s about staying healthy, active and connected.

Encouragingly, demand among US consumers for goods and services appears to remain intact.

A house not only serves as a place to live, but as a long-term investment, a measure of household wealth and a source of consumer spending.

Being actively involved in how and where your super is invested, could make a real difference to your retirement savings over the long-term.

Here we look at five global themes that are currently playing out in world markets, and how they may potentially impact their investment portfolios.