InvestSMART

InvestSMART September Update

Our take on what the latest GDP figures mean for investors and our diversified ETF portfolio performance.
By · 18 Sep 2023
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18 Sep 2023 · 5 min read
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The latest GDP figures were announced in September with a ‘soft landing’ being the verdict for the performance of the Australian economy. For those of us who are not economists it means that the economy has started to slow down. This is due to the higher interest rates and inflation we’re all experiencing, which has led to a fall in consumer spending. 

So, what does this mean for you as an investor? 

If you’re a regular reader of our Insights articles, you’ll know we don’t place a whole lot of weight on short-term market movements. For example: the ASX lost 0.8% on the day of the GDP figures announcement, but if you look back over the past 12 months the ASX had a total return of 9.56%.  

Our philosophy for investing is to ensure your mix of investments (ie your asset allocation) matches your risk tolerance and your investment timeline.  

Returns don’t happen in a straight line. No one can predict what will happen with markets here in Australia or abroad. Your one job as an investor is (as stated above) to ensure your portfolio matches your risk profile and then simply hold on to your investments and not interrupt your compounding.  

Minor fluctuations in the share market really only affect short-term traders and stock pickers on a day-to-day basis. Most investors who get into trouble are those who are constantly chasing returns. 

Plan for the worst, expect the best 

We manage our portfolios for ‘systematic risks’ like inflation and higher interest rates through correct asset allocation. If shares fall, your portfolio should be less impacted as it holds bonds and cash. 

Diversification is central to managing risk. The beauty of a diversified investment approach is you’re exposed to all corners of the investing world. When one asset class is underperforming, another is likely to be firing. This is why your portfolio holds international and Australian share ETFs, as well as bonds. International and Australian shares represented by ASX:VGS and ASX:IOZ in your portfolio had a total return of 21.83% and 9.26% respectively in the 12 months to 31 August. 

InvestSMART Professionally Managed Accounts 

The InvestSMART diversified portfolios delivered between 3.56% - 12.82% positive returns for clients to 31August 2023. 

 

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For more information on the companies discussed in this article, please click on the company of interest... iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (IOZ) | Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS)
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