News

2018: The story so far

The third quarter of 2018 showed mixed results for global stock markets.

In the US, shares have continued to power ahead, despite another rise in interest rates in late September and Mr Trump’s trade battles. It has been a different story in emerging markets, which have suffered from two key US factors: a strong dollar and those rising interest rates.

Japan has also performed well, with the Nikkei 225 reaching a 27-year high at the end of September. Meanwhile, Europe ended September on a down note, with worries about Italian government borrowing resurfacing just as the month closed. And for all the traumas of Brexit, the UK is marginally ahead of the rest of Europe across the first nine months of the year.

The mixed performances of the main markets serve as a reminder of the importance of asset allocation, and the dangers of focusing too heavily on the home market.

The final quarter of 2018 could provide a similar lesson, as another rise in US interest rates is expected, further supporting the dollar. The Brexit negotiations are also entering the final stages, which could have unpredictable effects on markets.

As ever, if you would like to discuss your investment options please get in touch.

The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

Newsletter

    What our clients say

    The majority of my time has been spent running a business and concentrating on making the correct day-to-day decisions; it was essential for me to gain advice and guidance. Phill and his team at RPG have been able to guide me and provide a balanced portfolio. Without turning to RPG, I would have been unable to arrange my long-term financial future. They have a vast amount of knowledge and have produced the results essential for when I decide to retire.

    John S, Shropshire

    Director

    Because our business was growing every year, we didn't really look at how the money we were making was put to best use. We needed some expert advice to lead us in the right direction. Anthony O'Connor has always been very helpful and approachable whilst dealing with our affairs. We are left to do what we do best: run a business. We would highly recommend anybody who is seeking financial advice to look at the services Anthony and his team can provide.”

    John and Carole, Cheshire

    Business owners

    We decided to use Phill Owen to help us with our financial planning as our savings, mortgage and life policies did not seem coordinated. Phill provided a clear plan for the future. He helped us organise our wills, inheritance matters and our future retirement. With our face-to-face catchups and regular emails or phone calls, Phill has always given us sound advice. This, in turn, has given us the peace of mind that our financial matters, now and in the future, are in good hands and in good order.

    Nick and Christine, Shropshire

    Retired Dairy Consultant and Retired NHS Therapist

    I started using RPG on the advice of my bank when I started my own limited company. They have guided me through potential pitfalls in such a friendly manner that, even though our relationship has always been professional, I still consider them as friends. This journey has gone through setting up my company, tax, VAT, insurance advice, setting up wills, buying a different house and ensuring my wife and sons are provided for, both now and in the future. It has been such an easy journey. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone.

    John M, Manchester

    Aircraft Engineer

    My wife and I have been clients of Phill's for 25 years; 20 of which were with RPG Chartered Financial Planners. 17 years were prior to retirement and nine years have been post-retirement. Their involvement has been crucial to dissipate our financial and estate management concerns. RPG’s staff have been exemplary; always approachable and quick to respond. We have no reason to believe that this tremendous working relationship will not be as successful in the future as it has been in the past. We have no hesitation in recommending them.

    Paul and Pat S

    Retired Veterinary Surgeon and Retired College Lecturer

    I am a Chartered Structural Engineer and have very little knowledge, experience or understanding of financial affairs and investments. Approximately six years ago I started to think about early retirement. For the past six years RPG have provided excellent financial planning and tax-efficient advice in the form of a combination of pension and cash ISA investments, which have grown significantly to such an extent that early retirement is imminent.

    Pete, Manchester

    Chartered Engineer

    Early in 2000, we decided we needed financial advice. We contacted Phillip Owen, who created a financial planning strategy that addressed all our needs. We were impressed with his advice, and so a partnership began that has lasted. Original goals are still being met and often exceeded, and investments are successful. There is long-term financial planning in place, even for the youngest family members. I highly recommend Phill and his team.

    Mike, Westminster

    Retired Teacher and Volunteer Sector Adviser

    We were in need of an adviser who could provide a wide spectrum of advice for managing our portfolio. We met Anthony on several occasions to understand his breadth of experience, and we were very impressed. Anthony's team took the reins in consolidating and rationalising our portfolio. We are very pleased with Anthony's service and we look forward to a long-lasting relationship with him.

    Atul and Nita, London

    IT Consultant & Accountant

    Anthony O’Connor has advised me over several years about pensions and general financial planning.  I have found him knowledgeable, supportive and a person who provides good solutions . He has a “can do “ approach and makes things happen.  I have recommended him to a number of friends and they are all happy with his support and advice  He is always good humoured which is a good quality when planning ones financial affairs.

    Geoffrey Smith, Manchester

    Solicitor

    Get in touch