Business Research & Insights

Interest rate differentials between the US and Australia are set to narrow further, creating Foreign Exchange opportunities for investors

Many people see diversification as a cornerstone of successful investing – and for good reason.

Here two start up funders share their approach to finding and nurturing the next big business idea.

We hope it sparks your creative ideas.

Private banker gets international accolade

Digital technology has become an essential part of how we interact with our money and our financial institutions. However, to manage substantial wealth, you need the personalised expertise that only a specialist banker can provide. Here’s why.

Luxury property unfazed by rising interest rates as new records set

Using debt to build wealth is a well established path. Taking that strategy into an equities portfolio is not so well understood, but it can transform long-term outcomes

Philanthropy works best when the givers are passionate about the cause. To achieve real change it may mean taking risk, and even failure.

Our economists stayed up all night so they could break down the Federal Budget for Australian businesses. Watch their take.

The combination of strong commodity prices, robust employment growth and higher wages growth will likely see the Government achieve a modest Budget surplus in FY23.

NAB Private Wealth scoops up major international awards

Get started early on your EOFY preparations to ensure you maximise your returns

Has acute lack of supply cast a safety net around the top end of the real estate market for the foreseeable future? Here, three experts offer their take on the economic, cultural and psychological factors influencing the availability and pricing of Australia’s rarest residences

Solving the problems of our transportation system and accelerating decarbonisation may sound like Herculean labors to most of us, but for energy titan Trevor St Baker AO they are the things of the daily to-do list. We sat down with the Brisbane-based businessman to reflect on his 60 years in the power industry and get the inside scoop on ushering in a world of flying cars.

The CIO Express

NAB Private Wealth, Australia's most awarded private bank wins new accolade for its focus on clients

As investors, growth is something we like to see in the economy. While we have entered a period of decline, we see scenarios emerging later in the year that could create growth and upside for equities.

The high cost of living from rising interest rates and low wage growth is already impacting residential property prices across Australia, but what about luxury property?

Global growth is expected to slow this year, but there are paths opening as we enter the new Lunar Year that could lead to a brighter picture, with a bit of luck in the Year of the Rabbit.

NAB senior leaders discuss the 2023 business outlook and where the opportunities will lie.

To take responsible investing to the next level requires a holistic approach and investors should accept nothing less.

The winning formula. Extract and interview with Asian Private Banker.

With inflation at 40-year highs central banks are doing whatever it takes to bring it down.

Find out what NAB’s new survey has to say on whether cash can insulate against unhappiness

Spring sees a renewed search for genuine luxury.

What megatrends are here to stay...and what defines them?

Thank you for a successful Flood Relief Trading Day.

Cyber crime can be an abstract threat – until it happens to you. How do you ensure you, and your business, aren’t impacted?

BlackRock’s Head of Wealth Australia explains why ETFs are the ideal tool to diversify your portfolio and ride out the current market uncertainty.

Australia’s wealthiest families are favouring a new approach to philanthropy — one that requires deep, strategic thinking — to create much-needed change and leave a lasting legacy.

Turbulent times call for less risky investment opportunities in the form of bonds, gold, infrastructure and a more diverse portfolio, says JBWere CIO Sally Auld.

The world is vastly different to what is was a few years ago. But it isn’t all doom and gloom for Australia’s international trade prospects, says NAB group chief economist Alan Oster.

Putting Wealth To Work For Generations

In challenging market conditions Australians are choosing to use buyers agents more than ever before, we’ll take a deep dive to find out more.  

Opportunities increase for those looking to upgrade and enter the market

Corporate giving and community investment, alongside high net worth giving, is the fastest growing segment of social impact funding.

RISING BUILDING COSTS AND A TRADES SHORTFALL ISN’T DAMPENING DEMAND, AS AUSTRALIANS EMERGE FROM TWO YEARS OF LOCKDOWNS, DETERMINED TO CREATE THEIR DREAM HOME.

Research shows that the vast majority of family wealth is lost by the third generation.

With the end of the financial year fast approaching, now’s the time to review your investment and tax strategies. The seven ideas here will help you to grow and preserve your wealth.

All you need to know

Yes, at its best, philanthropy goes well beyond the giving of money. But that’s not to say it’s always superior to charitable giving.

A private bank might be exactly what you need. But how do you go about choosing one?

Australia is going to see the greatest transfer of wealth in its history.

We look at the domestic and global interest rates outlook for 2022 and why interest rate risk management is an important consideration for many businesses.

The coming year will deliver both opportunities and challenges.

As we enter the Year of the Tiger, NAB’s Gerard Burg reminds us why Asia will continue to be the region of opportunities post-COVID.

An apartment in the city, a home in the country and a rental place in the ‘burbs. That’s the dream. But before you pack your portfolio with property, consider these tips for the year ahead.

The return of wealthy expats and pent-up demand has fuelled record-breaking prestige sales, making for a year unlike any other.

NAB senior leaders discuss the economy and the opportunities for business in 2022.

Join us for this insightful webinar where our expert panellists discuss a range of topics around global and local investment themes, alternative investments and responsible investing.

The caps on super mean many of Australia’s wealthiest families are looking to park their savings elsewhere. So what are the options?

Keen to invest in commercial property through your self-managed super fund? Make sure you do it wisely and well.

In this webinar you'll hear from a panel of experts discussing a range of topics impacting markets and investment] trends.

The pandemic has added to the sense of urgency around sustainability challenges the world faces. More than ever, investors are interested in ESG. But what tools are required to do it well?

This year, the AUD is down 7.1% vs. the USD, we look at what’s driving this under-performance.

After a wobble early last week, equity markets have resumed their upwards trajectory.

Large sums of private wealth are being shifted from term deposits into fixed income in a bid to increase returns. But you want to be sure you’re doing it the right way. 

Investors have well and truly embraced sustainable bonds. But do they have what it takes to help better the world?

It’s hard to invest for income right now. Maybe it’s time to try something different.

Here are some key priorities to ensure your wealth and investments are in great shape for the new financial year.

Australia’s high net worth investors face continued uncertainty – locally and globally. So what’s the smart next step? NAB Private and JBWere CEO Justin Greiner reveals his thoughts on how best to navigate 2021.

When you choose to contribute your wealth to society, you want to make sure it has the greatest possible impact. Deciding when and how to pass it on is a huge part of that.

Record levels of spending will call for record levels of funding this decade. That’s a golden opportunity for the private markets – and high net worth investors.

NAB senior leaders discuss the economy and the opportunities for business in 2021. Watch the video now.

Further gains as the economy continues to open up

Interest rates will remain low for at least the next couple of years and bonds are scarce. So how do you go about generating an income?

Responsible investing among Australia’s wealthiest individuals is rising exponentially. The question is: why?

When it comes to charitable donations today, it’s not just how much you give but how you do it.

Australian investors have had largely overlooked alternatives. COVID-19 may well change that.

NAB Private Customer Executive Greg Morris hosts NAB Chief Econonist Alan Oster, sharing his thoughts on the current state of the Australian economy and the road to recovery.

Podcast: What does great leadership look like in the current crisis?

Listen to new podcast: Why the current crisis calls for a great deal of resilience and a little bit of vulnerability.

Listen to new podcast: COVID-19 investment trends.

Family governance isn’t about deeds and charters so much as good communication, a shared vision and clear decision-making. It takes practice.

Inspired to make a difference in these tough times? Impact investing may be the perfect vehicle.

What does next year hold for Australian business owners? Listen to our podcast for NAB Chief Economist Alan Oster’s 2020 vision on the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Growth is key in a low-yield environment. But it’s also vital to protect the wealth you’ve spent years building.

We helped Neuberger Berman set up Australia’s first listed investment trust focused on global fixed income, to turn global bonds into income for Aussie investors.

It’s taken a while to gain momentum, but fixed income is starting to feature in high net worth portfolios in Australia, catching up with offshore peers.

The arts may not be as obviously critical as a hospital or a school. But they can provide new ideas to shape our world.

The latest Investment Trends research shows the number of high net worth individuals (HNWIs) in Australia rose to a record 460,000 people, reasserting Australia as one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

What are Australia’s wealthiest doing to prepare for tax-time?

Growth capital is more important than ever. But while we’re seeing new and innovative forms of funding stepping up to meet this need, it’s clear small and medium-sized businesses must step up too.

A vintage sports car, a pink diamond necklace, a precious work of art – they may be more fun than a share portfolio but do they make sense as investments? We examine the world of high-value collectibles – the good news and the cautionary tales.

They’ve been caricatured as avocado-toast-eating spendthrifts but it turns out plenty of young Australians are ambitious savers and well-informed investors. In fact, we could learn a thing or two from their lifestyle choices.

Digital innovation has only served to enhance what NAB Private can provide. So why do some banking transactions seem more laborious than ever? I’d like your feedback on the highs and lows of your own private banking experience.

In a Victorian first, Sacred Heart Mission and the Victorian Government recently launched the state’s first Social Impact Investment, an innovative financing structure that supports positive social change.

If you think private banking is all about loans and deposits or even wealth strategies, think again, says Jason Murray, the new Customer Executive of NAB Private.

If you think it’s hard to spot the next big digital start-up, imagine picking the next big thing in the art world.

Active asset management still offers value despite the rise of low-fee passive strategies in the fixed-income sector.

Caution but not panic is the mantra among top Australian property investors as they adjust to a new phase of the market cycle.

We’re even more committed to greater specialisation with the announcement of a new geographic approach that will mean even more support for our private banking customers.

Socially responsible investing has skyrocketed in Australia over the past few years. What does it mean to invest responsibly and what is its impact?

Australia is a high performer in academic research – yet when it comes to commercialising that research, we rank last in the industrialised world. It’s time for change, says the Chairman of NAB.

Joining innovation hubs, considering alternative funding options and building courage in investors are all paths to a greater entrepreneurial network in Australia, according to business leaders.

Nationally dwelling values continued their downwards trend last month; the seventh consecutive month on month decline since the national index series peaked in September last year.

The skills you learn around the board table could have a big impact on the way you run your business. Here are six of the benefits.

Setting goals can drive business success – but it doesn’t come naturally to many small business owners. Consultant and author Stephen Barnes shares tips on how to get started, how to set effective goals and how to motivate your staff to reach their targets.

Their big break: transformative moments for some of history’s best-known products.

Australian dwelling values held firm in March, with the combined capitals continuing a softening trend, recording a 0.2% fall, while regional markets saw a 0.4% rise in values over the month.

In a year in which women have united around the world to speak out in favour of women’s rights and equality, NAB is proud to again support the Stella Prize, celebrating female authors and recognising excellence achieved by women in literature.

Think charitable giving is the only way to make a valuable difference? Think again. You can now use your investments to help effect social and environmental change, with increasing opportunities to back projects that promise to address our world’s most pressing issues.

Buying into start-ups has long been the holy grail of forward-thinking investors. Equity crowdfunding opportunities are finally opening the doors.

Nationally, dwelling values recorded their fifth consecutive monthly decline in February, taking the value of housing 0.8% lower since the market peaked in September last year.

From the wilds of Namibia to the super-speeds of German autobahns, we look at six unforgettable driving experiences – where everything’s organised for you.

CoreLogic reported further slippage in dwelling values over the first month of 2018, with national dwelling values recording their second consecutive month on month decline. After dwelling values held firm in October and November, they slipped by a third of a percent in both December and January to be down 0.7% from their peak.

Observations from the OurCrowd Summit – how crowdfunding is creating opportunities for high-tech entrepreneurs and investors.

2017 saw all 45 OECD countries and the major emerging economies in synchronised growth for the first time in 10 years. JBWere examines the impact ‘synchronised growth’ has on markets and what’s in store for investors in 2018.

We’re living longer and our kids are experiencing the challenges of establishing themselves in a world of higher house-to-wage ratios. Our over-leveraged governments have responded by cutting back on spending in health, education and social services as well as super tax breaks that encourage us to save. The upshot is, we have to rely on ourselves for a comfortable long-term future.

Japan is arguably Australia’s most important Asian ally, and its large market of wealthy consumers is a natural target for Australian businesses selling high-quality goods and services. Here are some tips to help you establish successful business relationships.

In 2009, Sheryl Thai had just started a business and was like any other fledgling entrepreneur: hard-working, idealistic, passionate. Yet she felt alone. What she did next became the basis of a movement that’s helped thousands of women across Australia find their business voice: the League of Extraordinary Women.

What will the new year bring in the world of business trends? Whether it’s health or agriculture, hyper local advertising or self-trained artificial intelligence, NAB has one eye on the (crystal) ball.

Nationally, dwelling values were unchanged in November 2017 according to the CoreLogic home value index.

Where in the world – and at home – can you blend some spectacular travel destinations with the satisfaction of giving back? Here are a few ideas for a ‘voluntourism’ adventure.

Chris Black, a portfolio manager from Alexander Funds Management shares his insights on portfolio construction and what tips non institutional investors should and should not mimic from institutional investor portfolios.

From a Bedouin tent to a hotel made from ice – these unusual getaways promise a Christmas to remember.

The faster businesses can adapt to this generation and use their skills, the better.

CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index held steady in October, confirming a cooling trend in housing market conditions.

Could Australia be on the cusp of a start-up boom? Economic and social shifts mean the concept may not be as far-fetched as you might think.

Margin lending can offer you considerable flexibility to build your investment portfolio, just the way you want it.

Overall we are expecting that growth rates will continue to moderate across the combined capital cities.

As the weather starts to warm, the ocean calls. We present some of the world’s most delightful destinations to set sail for – whether with the help of crew and cook, or entirely solo.

Winter is over and you’re no longer interested in hibernating. Time to try an extreme sport.

Skills shortage holding back Australian business.

As Australia’s most important trading partner, China is one country your business probably shouldn’t ignore. We share tips to help you get started.

After the recent investor jitters triggered by the failure of some Public Private Partnership (PPP) toll roads, it looks like a new wave of infrastructure PPPs, kick-started by Federal and State Government investment, are making a strong comeback.

Fancy some liquid vinegar encased in frozen vinegar that explodes in the mouth? Or is Bread of the Forest with moss butter more your style? We look at four Michelin-starred restaurants to put on your radar right now for your next trip away.

NAB Global Investment Desk can ensure you find the right investment proposition – particularly helpful if you don’t even know it exists.

Following the nose of savvy A-listers who’ve teamed up with some of the world’s best vintners can see you discovering some stellar wines and sniffing out new takes on classic wine regions. Whether it’s to plan some vineyard hopping or simply order a case, here are some of our favourites.

With exchange traded funds, gaining exposure to a range of high-tech overseas businesses can be as straightforward as buying a share.

What was the moment that mattered? Adam Hilton, Managing Director of Noisy Beast, Media Manoeuvres' Sam Elam and Co-Founder of Appster, Mark McDonald tell their story.

In a changing world, success increasingly comes to those who can devise the most creative solutions to pressing problems. Here we profile seven books to help you reset your thinking, up your flow and tap into your inner creative.

The gruelling task that moving house can be was the inspiration for the online marketplace startup that’s now grown to be a household name and is attracting big investment. Business View spoke to the co-founders of Airtasker, Tim Fung and Jonathan Lui, about their journey.

Not yet a wholesale investor? It’s time you found out what you’re missing out on.

For Oporto founder Antonio Cerqueira, it was finding the right partner. For entrepreneur Anthony Janssen, it was working on his business, not in it. For Girl Geek Academy co-founder and CEO Sarah Moran, it was backing herself. What was the moment that changed them? Three business owners tell.

From the best powder to the brightest bling to the unlikeliest location, we count down eight ski resorts around the globe that are nothing short of exquisite.

On 1 July 2017, some of the biggest changes to superannuation in a decade come into effect. Some of the rules and tax concessions available are changing; discover what this means for you and what opportunities you could make the most of before the end of the financial year.

Impact investing (sometimes also referred to as mission-related investing) is an investment strategy where an investor proactively makes investments that can generate both financial returns, as well as intentional social or environmental returns for the community.

Did you know that not all investors are eligible to claim the franking credits? There are a number of strategies investors may look to utilise to limit their exposure to a fall in the share price of their chosen stock, while remaining eligible to receive the franking credits.

Research continues to show that companies with gender diversity in their leadership teams deliver better financial results. A new product from NAB – and Australia’s very first ‘social bond’ – allows investors to put their money where their mouth is and finally invest in gender-inclusive organisations.

Private equity has made headlines in Australia over the past year or two, but for many of the wrong reasons. The demise of Dick Smith Holdings was a high profile collapse that impacted many shareholders and retail customers, and a lot of blame has been pointed at the private equity fund manager who floated the business.

Get the latest monthly update on housing market conditions around Australia.

The market has been largely focussed on the US Election over the past month – and is now dealing with a fundamental change with the election of Donald Trump as President.

Read more to learn how you could use annuities in your portfolio.

Forward exchange contracts (“FECs”), which are usually between a bank and a customer, enable the exchange of one currency into another at a future date and a pre-agreed exchange rate.

In early September equity markets sold off after a US Federal Reserve official suggested interest rates could be increased at the September Fed meeting. Markets recovered later in the month when interest rates went unchanged.

As Australia’s population ages and ‘baby boomer’ retirements head toward their zenith in 2025, a discussion on the Retirement Risk Zone, that is the 10 years leading to retirement, is timely.

August saw another rise in global equity prices despite increased talk from US Federal Reserve officials that suggest they are looking to raise US interest rates in either September or December.

The “X factors” that had been dominating negative market views – bad debts in the Italian and Chinese banking system, terrorism, political issues and the rise of anti-globalisation – have given way to a “fear of missing out” rally.

We review July conditions and recommend overweight exposure in cash and alternative assets, with underweight positions in fixed interest, property and Australian equities, while keeping neutral exposure to international equities.

We review July conditions and recommend overweight exposure in cash and alternative assets, with underweight positions in fixed interest, property and Australian equities, while keeping neutral exposure to international equities.

It was a difficult month for equities with an initial sell off in early June, following the release of weak jobs growth figures in the United States and another decline later in the month following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.

This is the sixth in a series of reports prepared by the Australian Centre for Financial Studies for National Australia Bank aimed at explaining the potential role of corporate bonds in retail investor portfolios and promoting growth of the corporate bond market.

With the Brexit vote we expect markets to push lower over coming weeks until investors feel appropriately compensated for these heightened risks. We see post Global Financial Crisis share market sell-offs as a useful guide for what is likely over coming weeks.

Brexit is a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, with associated uncertainty. Investors will need compensation for this with lower share prices. We believe a 15% global equity sell-off over the next 6-8 weeks is a reasonable base case.

The concept of assessing a company’s quality gained popularity after the collapse of the tech bubble of 2001. Here we explore the quantitative and qualitative measures implemented to determine quality investments.

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new brand and exciting new partnership that combines the strengths of both NAB Private and JBWere.

Read more to learn how you could use asset-backed securities in your portfolio

In most of the major economies the outlook remains fragile, as a result of political uncertainty and disappointing earnings results. However recovery in equity prices has continued into April, primarily to the bounce in commodity prices and supportive central banks.

We all want to understand and profit from the latest trends, particularly when it comes to investment opportunities and strategies - but is it worthwhile jumping on the bandwagon? Here we explore the upsides and downsides of investing for or against market trends.

Investors commonly take the view that bonds are not a good investment in an environment where the central bank is expected to increase interest rates, but the decision may not always be that simple.

In our April update, Nick Ryder, JBWere Investment Strategist, highlights that the local equity market faces a number of headwinds from the rise in the AUD, lower commodity prices, higher potential bank capital requirements and profit margin pressures.

Gilmore speaks to Private Word about setting up the restaurant, his goals for its future and some of the secrets of his success.

Just over 15 years ago a trusty Tasmanian truffle dog named Pickles sniffed out the unmistakable perfume of the first Australian-grown black truffle. Today we are the fourth-largest producer of the luxe fungus labelled “black diamonds” because of the price tag it commands.

Understanding the structure of different investment options is key to choosing what’s right for your objectives and risk profile. Sally Campbell from JBWere, explains the benefits of the main types of product you can include in your portfolio.

In our March update, Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, talks mixed messages with slumps in developed markets, India and China while the US posted slight improvements and Australia performed reasonably well. Meanwhile, Europe’s inflation entered negative territory.

With the mining boom at an end, the dining boom has certainly fuelled the Australian agricultural sector. This sector is 5 percent of the Small Ordinaries and has been a source of great returns over the past few years.

It may traditionally have been known as the Apple Isle, but Australia’s smallest state is earning an ever-growing reputation for its production of fine single malt whisky that’s being hailed as some of the best on the planet.

Sally Campbell from JBWere looks at the carbon footprint considerations within fund managers’ assets, highlighting that some are more progressive than others.

The property market is clearly cooling as a result of deterioration in affordability due to higher prices and marginally higher mortgage rates.

In this discussion of alternative investments, Nick Ryder explains that the increased weighting in this asset class is the result of less attractive prices in traditional asset classes.

Nick Ryder, highlights that January was a difficult month for financial market with renewed investor jitters over slow growth in China and falling commodity prices.

Setting long-term asset allocation targets in a portfolio and achieving them are two different things. Here we discuss portfolio drift and how to manage it.

In November we’ve seen small declines in dwelling prices in Sydney and Melbourne with auction clearance rates falling to 60% along with average selling time. Reversing recent trends, prices in other metros rose in November.

In our December update, Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, highlights how equity markets rose again in November helped by expectations of further monetary stimulus from the European Central Bank.

Movements in the residential property market affect everyone - whether you’re an investor, an owner occupier, or a renter. After several years of incredibly strong house price growth, primarily in Sydney and Melbourne, there is now heated debate over where prices are likely to move.

The growth of the industrial internet phenomenon and its impact on our automated life. We look at how this trend is evolving the structure of companies that manufacture hardware and software technology.

Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, highlights how equity markets recorded their strongest rise in four years in October and continue to offer the best prospective returns of any asset class.

Food catering has evolved from being an add-on to mainstream shopping complex merchandising, to an attraction in its own right.

Sally Campbell from JBWere looks at timing the market given recent volatility and how viewing the data more closely can help you understand what’s really happening below the surface.

The Chinese Government’s surprise move to devalue the Yuan and make daily prices subject to market forces has prompted debate.

Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, provides insights into the emerging self-driving car industry.

Individuals should consider the value of their human capital as well their financial assets when calculating their net worth.

Chinese economic data has been weak, causing significant weakness in global equity markets In Australia, second quarter economic growth was lack lustre and there was a surprise fall in retail sales, but other measures of economic activity such as building approvals and employment look good.

Diverse opportunities in the non-Central Business District (CBD) office sector mean high net worth investors can invest through pooled/syndicated vehicles or directly. Peter Cashmore, NAB Senior Real Estate Equities Analyst, outlines what investors need to know.

Former shopping centre developer, grazier, entrepreneur and now magazine owner, Peter Howarth, explains how his personal passions drove the success of his enterprises.

Global financial markets recovered in July following the debt deal in Greece and stabilisation of the Chinese stock market. Locally, the news is also good – the unemployment rate appears to have peaked while business conditions and confidence have also picked up.

The United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment Initiative is an international network of investors that support responsible investing.

Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, explains takeover and defence tactics used by listed companies.

An investment portfolio can be designed based on risk tolerance, age or lifestyle objectives but using historic average returns (of different asset classes) to build that portfolio can be dangerous.

Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, explains the different ways analysts and fund managers value listed company shares.

Ructions in Greece and China are worrisome for investors but are unlikely to have a material impact on markets or on asset allocation recommendations.

Financial markets remain focussed on a Greek exit from the Eurozone, wild gyrations on the Chinese equity market and further hints about a rise in US interest rates. Locally, markets are concerned about falling commodity prices and strong property prices.

NAB joins with the Australian Centre for Financial Studies to launch their report ‘Improving access to the Corporate Bond market for retail investors’ which assesses where the market currently is, the factors affecting its growth, and the impediments to connecting investors and issuers.

The US Federal Reserve expects the US unemployment rate will fall to 5% by year end. Locally, the Reserve Bank of Australia is hoping lower interest rates will translate to a lower Australian dollar which would help the non-mining sectors.

Sally Campbell, Executive Director, JBWere, explains why investors should stick with their active fund managers, despite a period of underperformance by some.

Australia’s Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have regained popularity as investors seek high yielding investments in a low interest rate environment.

The link between bond yields and share prices over the past few weeks has spooked many investors but may be good news.

The US economy recorded slower jobs growth in April while GDP growth slowed to a crawl. This means the US Federal Reserve may delay raising interest rates until September. In Australia, jobs growth was higher than expected while core inflation sits comfortably in the middle of the Reserve Bank’s target range.

Developed market equities appear expensive compared to average long-term price-to-earnings ratios. However, given relatively subdued earnings growth, many investors argue that they aren’t expensive when compared to current bond yields.

Self-storage, healthcare and childcare are emerging markets to watch in the commercial property sector, as Peter Cashmore, Senior Real Estate Equities Analyst, NAB reports.

Crown Group CEO Iwan Sunito turned a love of drawing and desire to own his own business into a property development empire spanning Australia, Singapore and Indonesia. The group has $3.5 billion of projects in the development pipeline in Australia and Asia. He talks to Anna Fenech.

The End of Financial Year (EOFY) provides a good opportunity to consider strategies that can save you tax and maximise your investment returns.

The US Federal Reserve has given itself the flexibility to raise interest rates from June, responding to record jobs growth. Meanwhile in Australia, consumer and business confidence has eased back in the most recent surveys, despite the recent interest rate cut.

In Australia, interest in ethical investing (an investment method which looks to maximise financial and social returns) has continued to rise, but there are several ways to action your wishes.

Knowing when to reduce the proportion of equities in a portfolio and when to increase exposure to other asset classes like property, cash and bonds, can be part science and part art. Valuations, fundamentals and sentiment all play a role.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by John Pearce from UniSuper and Nick Bishop from Aberdeen to discuss where rates are headed, equities with sustainable dividends, and whether we're in a bond yield bubble.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, speaks with Tano Pelosi from Antares and Matthew Johnson from UBS about inflation and interest rates in Europe, along with the actions of European Central Bank President Mario Draghi.

A February interest rate cut and a strong company reporting season buoyed the Australian share market while overseas, resolution of Greek debt negotiations and continuing monetary stimulus, benefited developed global markets.

Over recent years, the impressive growth of ETFs has seen somewhat of a reversal back to direct investing with more than 100 ETFs now listed on the ASX, offering investors the opportunity to quickly and easily access global equity, bond, currency and commodity markets.

With bond yields at or near record lows in many parts of the world, particularly Europe, but with share markets in the United States and Germany hitting fresh record highs, signals are mixed, so it may be time to consider alternative investment opportunities.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by Steve Goldman from Kapstream and Adam Goldstein from Skeggs Goldstein to chat about the global economy and key US economic indicators, and how they could affect US Federal Reserve decisions.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by Steve Goldman from Kapstream and Adam Goldstien from Skeggs Goldstein to discuss how diversifying across asset classes during this time of low yield can still generate decent returns.

Long-term US research shows investors are frequently driven by fear and greed in their decisions - for example, selling out in weak markets. However, more recent findings show the average investor has learned from some past mistakes.

2014 was another strong year for international shares, with only part of the gains for Australian investors attributed to a weaker AUD. However, with the prospect of Australian interest rates falling further, investors’ future income from currency hedging is unlikely to be as high.

Global equity prices in developed markets lost 0.5% in January, with strong gains in Europe offset by weakness in the United States. Australian shares rose 3.3% while the Australian dollar fell four cents to US$0.78, against a strengthening US Dollar.

Overall, global equity markets are in a sweet spot. China, Japan and Eurozone Central Banks are looking at ways to maintain economic growth, while the United States has completed its quantitative easing and is looking at the appropriate time to raise official interest rates.

Global equity markets extended the October sharp rally through November, while gains were broadly based in Europe, Japan and the United States. Locally, fourth quarter data continues to show improvement in business credit and capital investment from non-mining sectors.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by Ken Hyman (Antares) and Francesco De Stradis (Ord Minnett) to discuss the Federal Open Market Committee's decision to lift interest rates and drop GDP forecasts.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, asks John Moore from Northward Capital to explain what to look out for when searching for a fund manager.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by Ken Hyman (Antares) and Francesco De Stradis (Ord Minnett), to consider whether the market will see 'herd instincts' kick in when investors exit the carry trade.

While one economic indicator is a statistic about economic activity, a range of economic indicators paint a picture of how the Australian economy is performing. They can also influence interest rates, exchange rates, commodity and stock market prices. Nick Ryder explains them in detail.

While equity valuation measures imply US shares are about 60% overvalued versus long-term averages, returns could be as low at 0.2% per annum if valuations return to long-term averages. Therefore, as Nick Ryder explains, there’s a need to find additional sources of portfolio returns.

Global equity markets staged a sharp turnaround in October. It was led by the US where their Federal Reserve reassured markets that interest rate rises remain data dependent. Meanwhile, there was additional modest improvement seen in Australian business and consumer confidence.

While the US economy remains robust, Australian shares fell 5.4% as markets digested falling commodity prices, a weaker Aussie dollar and the possible introduction of policy brakes on housing credit, as James Wright, JBWere Chief Investment Officer reports.

Managed funds offer an attractive way for investors to obtain exposure to an asset class that would be very difficult to access directly or in a diversified form. But how do you select one from the thousands on offer? Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, investigates.

With the large fall in the Australian Dollar over the past month, we’re reminded that currencies are good “shock absorbers” in financial markets and the economy. We share some suggestions for how best to manage your portfolio in this changing environment.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, asks Mercer's Russell Clarke and Chris Joye from the AFR to explain what a Carry Trade is.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, chats with Mercer's Russell Clarke and Chris Joye from the AFR about longevity, and how it’s a game changer for asset allocation.

Since 2000, changes have been made to how philanthropic efforts are treated by the Australian tax system – offering smarter ways for donors to arrange their giving to benefit them and future generations. JBWere Consultant, John McLeod discusses how to structure your philanthropic giving.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, discusses the economic outlook for Europe with Grant Eshuys (Citibank) and Mark Bayley (Aquasia), and together they explore the challenges the European nations are facing.

With better US economic data, global markets were stronger in August. Locally, as James Wright, JBWere Chief Investment Officer explains, company reporting season was positive and stocks rewarded for delivering solid earnings, yields or capital management.

People invest so they can have more money in the future than they have today. However, they have different objectives which generally fall into three categories: preserve capital; generate income and grow capital, as Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist reports.

There are options to consider when allocating property to your portfolio. NAB Private Wealth aligns its views with those of institutional investors and favours core unlisted commercial property, with low to moderate gearing, rather than listed property securities or residential property.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, chats with Mercer's Sue Wang and the National Party's Kevin Hogan about disengaged investors - people who are uninterested in closely monitoring their superannuation - and the importance of more simple and transparent products for these people.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, discusses how changes in Australia's demographics threaten to have major impacts upon the Australian economy with Mercer's Sue Wang and the National Party's Kevin Hogan.

Despite US equity markets posting fresh records in July, a late, large fall saw equity markets finish lower. While valuations are stretched, JBWere Chief Investment Officer, James Wright, reports that the US economic recovery should support current earnings forecasts.

After deciding that US equity market valuations are over-stretched, we’ve changed our asset allocation recommendations. In particular, we’ve decreased our exposure to international shares from over-weight to neutral and increased our cash weighting from neutral to overweight.

Equity income funds are those which aim to generate income from investing in shares. But as NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, Nick Ryder reports, the issue is whether investors should care whether they get profits through dividends or capital gains.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, chats with Adam Goldstien from Skeggs Goldstien and Simon Ibbetson from Millinium about the property markets and how a change in these markets could affect inflation and therefore the banks.

Even though equity prices are high compared to historical levels, we believe equity valuations are not excessive, so equities are still attractive compared to other asset classes. We provide insights on our favoured asset classes and how best to position your portfolio.

The US equity market posted fresh highs in June, but price support remains good globally and locally, says James Wright, Chief Investment Officer, JBWere. Read more for currency and property news from the NAB FX Strategy team and Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist.

It’s time to revisit your global equity exposure. Following a period of strong performance in international shares, it may be a good time to consider taking some profits and rebalancing your portfolio back to long term target weightings, says Duncan Niven, Analyst JBWere.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, chats with Adam Goldstien from Skeggs Goldstien and Simon Ibbetson from Millinium about which asset classes are facing bubbles, along with discussing some markets where good value lies.

NAB’s Director of Fixed Income, Mark Todd, is joined by NAB Head of Research Peter Jolly and Laminar economist Stephen Roberts to discuss the Federal Reserve's Balance Sheet.