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Several central banks, including the Federal Reserve, Bank of England, and European Central Bank, have ushered in a new era of rate-cutting, signalling the end to their fight against inflation. But what does this easing cycle mean for asset classes?

The global economy is becoming more fragmented, creating a complex landscape for investors and policymakers. Geopolitical events, such as the US elections, the Ukraine-Russia war, and heightened tensions in the Middle East, are amplifying market uncertainties. In response, we have raised our conviction on gold from 3/5 to 4/5.

The Fed’s long-awaited rate cut in September marks the start of a new easing cycle. With the end of the higher-for-longer narrative, investor expectations have shifted, prompting portfolio adjustments and risk premia arbitrage.

After a historic US pre-election debate, commentators agree Kamala Harris has profited, while Donald Trump’s ratings slipped, but how have markets responded?

Over the summer months, gold rose to new all-time highs at levels of around USD 2,685 per oz. The nearly relentless rise in the gold price reflects several factors.

In an exclusive interview with Fredrik Langenskiöld, Senior Alternative Investment Specialist at UBP, FundsPeople explores the firm's alternative fund selection process.

The positive view towards fixed income is best expressed through the higher-income segments of the market given robust nominal GDP growth and elevated all-in yields that are still in excess of the historical returns of global equities.

Direct lending, the biggest segment in private debt, is now accessible to a broader range of investors and seeing increasing demand, boosted by its superior risk-adjusted returns and attractive features that include speed and certainty of execution.

Despite recent volatility, emerging markets (EMs) continue to hold significant potential for investors. The current global trends and market conditions present several tailwinds that can drive growth and create opportunities in EM fixed income investments. Here, we explore these tailwinds and discuss the investment implications for the second half of 2024.

Hedge funds are seeing positive inflows this year, says UBP’s Nicolas Faller, who also talked to us about his preferences in terms of bond and equity investments.

In mid-August, UBP raised its conviction rating on hedge funds from 3/5 to 4/5, reflecting the belief that alternative investments are well-positioned to navigate the shifting market landscape.

Over the past 15 months, most asset classes have put in positive performances. However, we’ve entered a transitional phase marked by rising volatility, political risks, and market dissonance. To navigate this shifting landscape, we have reduced our global equity exposure and increased our conviction on hedge funds, as alternative investments are well-positioned to capitalise on current market uncertainties.