December saw an uptick in Covid infections worldwide. Daily case numbers in the US topped one million for the first time, underlining the ongoing challenge of the pandemic.
Australia is in the midst of its biggest decline in immigration for more than 100 years.
That suggests housing construction activity could slow and that that the labour force could shrink in the years ahead.
The investment market volatility that kicked off in March 2025 has felt like a punch, particularly for those in or nearing retirement.
Global markets whipsawed following the “Liberation Day” tariff announcements on April 2, and subsequent developments throughout the month. Volatility was rife and trading volumes were robust.