December 2009 investment commentary
Investment markets were mixed in December 2009 with equity and property markets moving higher, while fixed interest markets produced negative returns.
Equity markets
Equity markets continued to perform strongly in December, with most markets finishing at or near their highest points for the year after an extremely volatile 2009. The Australian equity market rose by more than 3% during December, bringing the rise in the market since the lows experienced in March 2009 to more than 50%. Investors continued to push the market higher on the basis of improved economic conditions both domestically and globally, while merger and acquisition activity also helped to lead the market higher. International equity markets also finished on a high note, with the majority of the world's major markets higher during December as a result of the improved economic outlook.
Fixed interest markets
Fixed interest markets fell during December with negative returns recorded both domestically and internationally. Globally, investors became concerned about potential inflation and comments by ratings agencies about the challenges facing the US and UK economies and their ability to maintain their AAA ratings. Strength in the domestic economy led to the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raising interest rates by a further 0.25% in early December. The December rise marks the first time in history that the RBA has increased interest rates in three consecutive months. Returns from Australian fixed interest were negative due to the increase in official interest rates and an overall rise in fixed interest yields. The rise in yields resulted in the price of fixed interest securities falling.