April 2010 investment commentary
Financial markets were mixed in April with equity markets generally lower while fixed interest markets produced positive returns. Volatility increased in the majority of markets during the month. Investors were heartened by the positive news on world economic growth, but concerned about the ability of several European countries to repay their debts. During the month Standard and Poor's downgraded Greece's credit rating to BB+, Portugal's credit rating to A- and Spain's credit rating to AA.
Equity markets
The Australian equity market performed poorly in April after recording one of its best months on record during March. Sovereign debt problems in Greece created uncertainty in the market, while a government induced slowdown in China was also seen as a negative for the Australian equity market. Investors also became nervous that the Australian government would increase taxes in the mining industry (the government subsequently announced the introduction of a resource super profits tax in May) thus potentially curbing profits of some of Australia' largest companies.
International equity markets were mixed during April with returns varying across regions. The US market was higher during April on the back of stronger economic growth and positive first quarter earnings results. European markets were generally lower however, with sovereign risk concerns dragging down the equity markets of Greece, Portugal and Spain. The French and German markets were also lower. Asian equity markets were generally lower with the Chinese market leading the fall (down by more than 4%).
Fixed interest market
The Australian fixed interest market produced positive returns during the month as investors sought out the relative safety of government bonds. The Australian fixed interest market traded in a fairly narrow range, which was in contrast to most other financial markets which were highly volatile. The Reserve Bank of Australia raised interest rates by another 0.25% to 4.25% during the month. International fixed interest markets also performed strongly during the month as investor risk aversion resulted in assets with defensive qualities being highly sought after.
