Newsroom

84% of women report feeling unprepared to manage inherited wealth, with many finding the experience challenging when it arrives.

Global markets are entering a more balanced phase, where higher‑for‑longer rates, renewed energy pressures and sticky inflation are starting to test an artificial intelligence (AI)‑driven equity rally rather than abruptly reversing it.

In April, we anticipated an inflationary shock and a persistently cautious stance from central banks. That scenario has now materialised, reducing the prospects of any meaningful monetary easing.

Global equities extended their rally, powered by significant technology sector strength and a standout earnings season: S&P 500 Q1 earnings per share (EPS) growth reached +27.7%, double initial expectations. Emerging markets outperformed, led by Taiwan and South Korea.

Events in the Middle East have highlighted a profound shift in market dynamics. The very nature of volatility appears to be changing, requiring management strategies to adapt.

Global equities advanced, driven by strong US technology earnings, while fixed income markets slipped as yields moved higher and central banks maintained a cautious stance.

As global wealth management becomes more complex, external asset managers (EAMs) are operating under increasing pressure to deliver performance, manage costs, and differentiate their propositions.

Global markets are navigating a fragile balance between resilient growth, persistent geopolitical tensions and cautious central banks.

Investors reacted positively to a further de-escalation in the Middle East last week.

Following the announcement of a two-week US–Iran ceasefire on Tuesday, 7 April, risk assets were supported by the perception that the worst may have been avoided.

Headlines about a potential ceasefire in the Middle East have started to appear, though visibility on the geopolitical outcome remains limited.

The recent escalation in the Middle East has materially changed the tone of markets and prompted us to revise our base case scenario, notably on energy.