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2019 May Be A Testing Time

In these uncertain times, many savers and investors are holding large sums as cash within their bank accounts and investments. Yet they are invariably getting no interest on these deposits. So action is required if they want the potential to at least meet inflation, currently standing at over 2.5%.

The expectation is that performance of the financial markets in 2018 should be a reasonable guide to what lies ahead in 2019, with greater volatility playing a major role. The feeling is that Equities will lead the way in 2019, albeit via a bumpy road.

Investors should expect lower and more variable returns than those seen in 2017 and the sentiment is that buy and hold is the best strategy. But to weather the storms ahead investors need to hold a well-diversified portfolio that is actively managed. Management of volatility is key so Multi-asset funds should be of interest to investors.

This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.

Other News

Good news only, please

Dave Diggle

As an IFA I have become very sensitive to market reactions and I have always had an interest in current affairs, but at this time even I am getting bogged down by this endless supply of bad news.

The recent drops in the stock markets are simply down to confidence and not of the same making of the crisis eight years ago.

I still struggle to see why a barrel of oil at $27 dollars compared to the $108 of eighteen months ago is anything other than good news. After all, there are more consumers of oil than producers. Motorists felt the positive effect immediately and users of oil in industry such as manufacturing plants or airlines should post better than expected quarterly profits, which may help dividend levels. In many cases this is yet to be rolled out.

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Custodial Sentence for Pensions Fraudster

PrisonAn investigation by The Pensions Regulator has for the first time resulted in an immediate custodial sentence for the perpetrator of professional pensions fraud, after William Bessent, an accountant who used his position as the trustee and administrator of a pension scheme to steal his clients’ savings, was sentenced to 40 months in prison. He pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges, making prohibited employer-related investments, and separate charges of acting as a director while disqualified.

The landmark case, being heard at Preston Crown Court* will also hopefully result in the return of stolen funds. On July 5 the courts will seek to obtain a confiscation order in order to make Bessent repay the remainder of the money he owes; he has so far repaid £80,000 but owes a further £200,000.

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