


| Market Monitor |
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Updated: 20th May 2013 In another strong week for equity markets the US S&P 500 index surged to a new record high. Data that showed US consumer sentiment at a six year high boosted stocks and helped the dollar to maintain its recent upward momentum. Indeed, the US dollar hit its highest level against a basket of currencies since 2010. The Japanese stockmarket continued its extraordinary performance, reaching its highest level since December 2007. A weekly rise of 3.6% means the Nikkei index’s year-to-date return is now 45%. Yen depreciation continued as it fell to a four year low versus the US dollar. As the dollar rose, the gold price headed in the opposite direction; falling by $90 over the week. While macroeconomic data in the US was a mixed bag, data from the eurozone was generally gloomy last week. Most notably, Germany recorded growth of just 0.1% for the first quarter. However, stocks in Europe performed well and the Eurofirst 300 hit a five year high. Important information: This update is intended to be for information purposes only. |
Jonathan Walker
Jonathan is the director and joint owner of the Pension Drawdown Company.
Christopher Hill
Christopher is a Chartered Financial Planner, Certified Financial Planner and Fellow of the Personal Finance Society.
Bob Diamond
Bob is a Pension Specialist who has been with the company since its incorporation in 1996. Bob has been a financial adviser since 1989.
Andrew Ross
Andrew is a diplomaed financial adviser with a history in banking.
Roger Easterbrook
Roger is a diplomaed financial adviser with a background in Executive Search.
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The Pension Drawdown Company specialises in providing advice on all aspects of pension drawdown and investments.