June brought calmer markets, a weaker Australian dollar, steady interest rates and important financial year tax changes.

The Federal Budget took centre stage in May announcing a raft of new tax and investment policies.

Market attention remained fixated on developments in the Middle East during April.

In many respects, the start of 2026 has mirrored the beginning of 2025, with market sentiment once again dictated by US trade policy.

In many respects, the start of 2026 has mirrored the beginning of 2025, with market sentiment once again dictated by US trade policy.

The Iran conflict dominated both markets and headlines in March, as investors grappled with the uncertainty surrounding a potential global oil shock.

Despite the geopolitical and trade headwinds, both equities and bonds delivered positive returns for diversified investors in 2025.

Diversified investors are positioned to record another positive year, highlighting the benefits of investoring across both geographies and asset classes.

Australia’s housing market hit $12 trillion, despite the prospect of fewer intereact cuts in the months ahead.