Financial markets were volatile during May, against a backdrop of divergent macroeconomic news. First-quarter Gross Domestic Production growth came in below expectations for most regions, notably for the world’s largest…

Introduction Global equities were somewhat mixed during April. Weaker economic data from the US, Germany, and China encouraged investors to lock in profits toward month-end and trimmed gains in US…

Introduction The first quarter of 2015 saw equity markets post widespread gains, with momentum largely driven by Central Bank actions. March, however, was somewhat subdued. US markets, in particular, lagged…

Introduction Global equity markets remained buoyant in February, ending near cyclical-highs.  An eager anticipation of the European Central Bank’s economic booster-shot, and a recovery in oil prices, has carried market…

Introduction January proved to  be a volatile month in global financial markets.   Investors will hope that the “ January-effect”  (whereby initial performance is the predictor of what’s to follow) does…

December was punctuated by two key events that will have significant bearing on the markets heading into 2015. Crude oil fell by -18.3% during the month (it is down -45.6%…

The extended stock market rally in developed markets dating back to the latter half of 2012 seemed to finally come to a screeching halt in July.  Increasing fears of deflation…