News

Australian stocks added 1.4% for the month despite a fall in resource prices and related stocks. Gold fell 2.5%, oil off almost 7% to $74.25, and iron ore remained firm at $68.50.

The RBA left interest rates on hold, maintaining the same stance now for almost 2 years – a new record of stability. The consumer seems to be shopping again, with retail sales rebounding in April. Unemployment remains stable at 5.6%, and wage prices remain weak. Bond investors earned 3%, and Cash investors +1.8%.  

In recent weeks, oil has had a stellar run. Back in 2016, the oil price collapsed, trading just under $30p/b. Last week it topped $80p/b, lifting around 6% in a month, or 160% from the 2016 lows.

Over the last 20years, nearly half of the Australian stock market's return can be attributed to healthy, reliable dividends. This dividend stream needs to eventually grow, and companies that are well placed to do this are called Gary. No, not your neighbour Gary, rather Growth-at-reasonable-yield companies.

Global stocks had a better month after a weak March. The US/China trade war saw China retaliate with 128 US goods being slapped with a 25% tariff. Chinese stocks weakened 2.7%.