Investment market update: May 2020

Category: News

Whilst investment markets have settled a little from the severe bouts of volatility seen a few months ago, the impact of Covid-19 continues to weigh on economic and business prospects. The next few months, as restrictions are lifted and government support begins to withdraw will be crucial and give an indication of how economies will fare in the short and medium-term.

UK

The full impact of coronavirus on the economy remains unknown. However, the lockdown and ongoing restrictions will undoubtedly have an impact. The Bank of England predicts the UK economy will shrink by 14% this year. However, it added banks are strong enough to handle this and will be able to continue lending.

During May, the government announced it was easing lockdown restrictions, allowing some businesses, including retailers, to prepare to open in June. The furlough scheme, which figures from the Office for National Statistics indicated two-thirds of firms have taken advantage of, has also been extended until October.

Unsurprisingly, economic activity has slowed considerably over the last couple of months:

  • Official figures show UK GDP shrank by 2% between January and March, just as the pandemic was beginning to take hold
  • UK private sector output fell to record lows, with data going back to 1998. The composite PMI index fell to 13.8 in April, with a reading below 50 indicating contraction
  • CBI’s measure of factory output suggests volumes are down 54% in the last quarter, with 84% of respondents stating they have seen a negative impact on their domestic output.

In a sign that consumer confidence is falling and an economic downturn is weighing on decisions, the Bank of England reported that credit growth and mortgage approvals are at their lowest point since 2013. Credit card lending fell for the first time on record, with records going back to 1987.

Europe

In a similar picture to the UK, Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, expects the eurozone economy to shrink by 8-12% in 2020. GDP across the currency area fell 3.8% in the first quarter of 2020.

The eurozone PMI did improve in May, rising to 30.5 compared to the record low of 13.6 in April. As the figure is still below 50, it indicates a contraction but could suggest that businesses are getting back on their feet as lockdown restrictions started to lift across Europe.

The EU has also unveiled its recovery fund which is accessible to all EU member states, which could go some way to offer confidence to businesses operating during these uncertain times as well as investors. The fund totals €750 billion and includes a €560 billion recover and resilience facility and a new health programme to prepare for future health crises.

US

Mimicking what we’ve seen in Europe, US GDP fell by 5% in the first quarter and Jerome Powell, Chair of the Federal Reserve, warned the US faced a ‘prolonged recession’.

Data released in May shows that US factory orders have suffered a 10.3% slump, with PMI data for the manufacturing sector falling to 41.5 in March. Even more worrying is the PMI April figure for the US construction sector falling to just 8.2. The lower level of activity has affected unemployment rates. The private sector suffered record job losses, with 20.5 million Americans losing their job in April.

Causing concern among investors is also the risk of a trade war igniting between the US and China again. In January, a preliminary trade deal was signed suggesting an agreement could be reached between the two nations. However, President Donald Trump has since called for tariffs as the ‘ultimate punishment’ for the handling of the coronavirus pandemic, dashing investors’ hopes.

Asia

Data from Hong Kong has highlighted the impact of coronavirus in the region. The economy shrank by 5.3% in 2020, however, last year’s pro-democracy protests and the US-China trade war will also of had an impact.

As always, it’s important to consider your long-term financial plans and goals when investing. Whilst the market may be experiencing some volatility and economic downturn, focusing on the bigger picture is crucial.

If you have any questions at all about your investments, please get in touch.

What our clients say

Having dealt with various financial advisers in the past, both Gary and Kate give a far more personal service and explain things clearly. They take the time to understand what we want from financial planning and they have the knowledge to advise us in a variety of different aspects. Although we have only been clients from just before retirement, I would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone of any age and we have absolutely no regrets in switching to Lifeplan.

Colin, Nottingham

A client since 2016

On my first visit to Lifeplan several years ago, Gary took lots of time to get to know my background, my financial objectives and me. There was never any sales push or persuasion to get my business. We’ve always discussed issues; Lifeplan give me options and I decide what to do. I don’t feel any pressure to do anything that I’m not comfortable with. I feel as though we have a personal relationship, rather than just being another business transaction. That's why I’m happy with Lifeplan’s guidance with my life savings.

Anthony, Northumberland

A client since 2014

We have been with Lifeplan for a few years now. Kate has been brilliant in helping us understand our level of risk and planning for retirement. Before we spoke to Kate, it was always something we would just say we’d get around to at some point! It’s really important to have a plan and I feel more secure about our finances now.

Kate, Gateshead

A client since 2015

I initially approached Lifeplan as my parents had used them in the past. I received excellent financial planning advice, and as I am still quite young and newly-qualified, this was invaluable. I also approached Lifeplan to help me find a suitable mortgage and again they were fantastic. They took a lot of pressure off me by dealing with lenders as well as solicitors. First class!

Jamie, Northumberland

A client since 2017

I would recommend Lifeplan to anyone, as they provide an excellent and honest service.

Philip, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2016

Initially we were unsure about contacting Lifeplan, as we were wary that any advice given may not be impartial or even to our benefit. We needn't have worried as we now have every confidence in the planning, investments as well as the will and trust Lifeplan helped us with. It is a great relief knowing we can trust the people dealing with our finances. We are always kept fully up to date and have annual meetings where everything is explained in clear and concise ways.

June, Northumberland

A client since 2016

I have more in my pot now than when I retired 11 years ago, even though I joined at the beginning of the banking crisis.”

Derek, Consett

A client since 2011

I have had nothing but the best advice from Kate Boon over the last 12 years, in relation to mortgages, investments and financial planning for later life. She’s always down to earth in her approach, but very knowledgeable and a real professional.

Irene, Hexham

A client since 2012

In the five years that Lifeplan has looked after our investments, we have received an excellent, friendly, professional service, which has given us very satisfactory returns on our savings.

Pauline, Lanchester

A client since 2011

Our family has worked with Gary and Kate for many years and have built up a good trusting working relationship with this professional, efficient and caring company. We feel that they always consider our specific financial needs and provide advice accordingly. We definitely feel we are in safe hands with Lifeplan.

Julie, Consett

A client since 2010

As retirement approached, I was uncertain how to proceed. Advice from Lifeplan set us on the right track and we are now enjoying a very comfortable lifestyle. Good advice was provided regarding our wills and Powers of Attorney. We appreciate the guidance given and feel happy and secure in our retirement.

Albion, Tyne and Wear

A client since 2015

Lifeplan is an approachable and plain-speaking business. They are always there to help and assist, as well as provide annual reviews of my current finances and what can be changed to benefit me in readiness for retirement.

Ian, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2011

Kate is my financial consultant and has put a lot of work into my investments recently, making it very clear how it has been invested and where. This appears to be honest, up-to-date advice from someone who clearly knows the markets. I receive a pleasant, friendly service, in a nice modern office also.

Andrew, Hexham

A client since 2015

Lifeplan provides a friendly, professional service at reasonable cost. They are very responsive to any request I make and keep my portfolio of investments in line with my ongoing requirements. In 12 years of using Lifeplan, I have never had cause for concern.

Rob, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2006

Gary and Kate have been excellent in understanding our needs and requirements and have given first class advice. They have helped with our financial planning and setting up a trust to ensure our wishes for the future will be met. Nothing is too much bother for them and they provide an excellent service. My wife and I would happily recommend them.

John, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2014

When I retired, I wanted my capital to work for me. I was looking for a reasonable but realistic return on investment, but without a high risk. Lifeplan have provided me with just that. I have an annual review, where we have a frank discussion about current arrangements and any changes that Lifeplan may recommend. There is no jargon and things are explained in an understandable way. Plus, they are thoroughly nice people.

Harry, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2015

I found Gary and Kate very easy to speak to. They listen to your concerns and wishes, then give you the best options on how to invest moving forward. Their choices are always explained to you in understandable terms.

Edward, Hexham

A client since 2014

We have always been given helpful advice in a most professional manner. Every detail was explained fully in a way that was easily understood. We would have no problem in recommending Lifeplan to anyone wishing to invest.

Lisa, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2011

I'd tried several advisers prior to being introduced to Gary and was not happy with their service. Gary was instrumental in organising our pension information, so that we could understand what we were paying in to and why. Sounds easy, but we have had three previous advisers from some of the largest banks that could not do this. Since meeting Gary, we have successfully transferred our pension fund and original property in to a new scheme. In addition to this, Gary has successfully helped our company purchase a new property through our pension.

Bruce, Tyne and Wear

A client since 2013

Gary sorted out my pension by tailoring it to my own specific requirements. Until then, it was with large organisations and I really felt out of control with it. He explained technical financial terms well and I felt that he was not happy until he knew I fully understood all aspects of the business. There was no pressure from him and I always felt very confident that he was doing the best he could do on my behalf. He is fully qualified, takes pride in his job and in my opinion is impeccably trustworthy. His team is also very efficient, keeping me advised on all aspects of our business.

Henry, County Durham

A client since 2009

I was looking for financial planning and not just financial advice. Gary explained options in an easily understandable way and offered an alternative way of looking at the impact on different financial models. Initial advice was exactly what I wanted, and I am satisfied that the options I have now chosen are based on sound advice. I have decided to become a long-term client. What myself and my wife wanted was someone whom we felt we could trust with giving impartial advice on our future financial situation, and this we feel we have achieved with Gary

Colin, Nottingham

A client since 2016

I was recently widowed and wanted to simplify my financial affairs for my children should anything happen to me. Gary was very understanding of my needs and dealt with me patiently and in a simple way. I believe the products he recommended will benefit me.

H Walker, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A client since 2016

I contacted Kate to review my pension arrangements, with a view to changing my then pension provider. She helped and advised me on what I currently had, and helped find something better for my current and future needs. Obviously, it’s too early to say, but Kate clearly explained and showed me on the software what my pension could be like when it comes to retirement under various scenarios.

Richard, County Durham

A client since 2008

Redundancy required a re-think of my finances and future planning. Gary set up an investment portfolio following a detailed discussion, including provision of advice that met our needs. I am very pleased with the overall return over the last six years, balanced against the level of risk we were prepared to take.

Brian, County Durham

A client since 2012

Gary has developed a structured plan to ensure our funds will last in retirement. We are now deciding when to retire or reduce to part-time employment.

K Walker, County Durham

A client since 2010

We made an appointment to discuss the remortgage of properties. Kate understood our requirements and personally sorted the process in a very professional way from the start to a successful conclusion. She dealt with all matters, no matter how small.

Jim, County Durham

A client since 2016

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