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26 August 2025
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With the US Federal Reserve (Fed) appearing to be on course to begin cutting interest rates in September, In this paper, we want to follow up on a recent analysis we published about asset-market performance after the start of a Fed easing cycle. The earlier study focused on performance of US stocks and bonds, and in this new analysis we expand the study to include non-US equities. The Fed’s interest-rate decisions have global impact, and we believe that many other central banks will also reduce rates.
Analyzing historical global equity performance in the 12 months after the Fed’s first rate cut, we find that equity markets tend to have positive performance when rate cuts are not followed by a recession. In some cases, rate cuts can help the performance of equities—with returns over the ensuing 12 months above historical annual averages. To assess likely outcomes, it’s crucial to consider the timing of the cuts relative to the economic context.
Download the full paper
Each generation believes its economic challenges were uniquely tough - but what does the data say? A closer look reveals a more nuanced, complex story behind the generational hardship debate.
Australia could unlock smarter investment and greater equity by reforming housing tax concessions. Rethinking exemptions on the family home could benefit most Australians, especially renters and owners of modest homes.
The Labor government is talking up tax reform to lift Australia’s ailing economic growth. Before any changes are made, it’s important to know who pays tax, who owns assets, and how much people have in their super for retirement.
This goes through the different options including shares, property and business ownership and declares a winner, as well as outlining the mindset needed to earn enough to never have to work again.
Everyone has a theory as to why housing in Australia is so expensive. There are a lot of different factors at play, from skewed migration patterns to banking trends and housing's status as a national obsession.
China's steel production, equivalent to building one Sydney Harbour Bridge every 10 minutes, has driven Australia's economic growth. With China's slowdown, what does this mean for Australia's economy and investments?
A fiery interview on housing exposed deep generational divides, sparking youth outrage and political backlash. As homeownership drifts out of reach, young Australians face a choice: fight the system - or redefine success.
Ageing SMSF members can face issues funding their pension income as cash reserves dwindle. Potential solutions include involving adult children in contributions to secure future financial stability.
The second quarter US earnings season has wrapped up, with a record 82% of S&P 500 firms beating earnings estimates. As tailwinds fade, Q3 may reveal whether AI momentum can offset rising economic headwinds.
9,000 years and no devaluations later, gold is the world’s most enduring store of value. It remains attractive as the value of several paper currencies, including the US dollar, are threatened by deficits and rising debt.
Consumer spending directly impacts corporate earnings, sector performance and market sentiment. The latest data from different economies uncover risks and pockets of opportunity for investors.
The Fed could soon be prompted to join other central banks in cutting interest rates. This would have ripple effects across global fixed income markets and provide an especially attractive backdrop for emerging market bonds.