At the end of a long, challenging year, it’s understandable that people are keen for a well-earned break. However, the reality is that in
2020, Christmas and New Years will look a little different to what we’ve become familiar with. In this edition, we look at the impact of
COVID-19 on the upcoming holiday season and what the recent Federal Budget measures could mean for your retirement.
Geopolitical tensions remained in focus in June as renewed conflict in the Middle East disrupted oil supply routes and raised concerns about broader regional instability. Oil prices spiked as tensions rose and supply concerns mounted, though moderated after a ceasefire was called 12 days later. Brent closed June +5.8% higher at $67.61.
While the month began with constructive discussions and agreements between the US and some of its trading partners, uncertainty returned to the market after President Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on Europe and multiple large corporates such as Apple, Samsung and Mattel, and again near month-end as the Court of International Trade deemed the global tariffs to be “contrary to law.”
