Global shares: it was another difficult month for the asset class with declines of 0.8% (unhedged) and 0.2% (hedged), although some markets (particular in Asia) were able to eke out gains.
Australian shares were sharply lower for the month. Small caps were the laggard. With a relatively large allocation to the materials sector, declining commodity prices this month weighed heavily on small caps
Fixed income yield curves moved higher this month, resulting in further losses across most sectors. Credit performed slightly better, with spreads remaining contained on healthy corporate fundamentals.
The Australian Dollar appreciated against the USD on the weakness of the latter, but also on the expectation of further rate hikes by the RBA. The AUD weakened on a TWI basis following softening in some key commodity prices.
Globally
Private sector expansion, as noted in the May PMI’s, has started to replace the reduction in public sector stimulus.
However, with inflation remaining at levels not seen in a generation, many central banks have commenced tightening monetary policy.
This position contrasts with China, where authorities are seeking to stimulate growth to ward of a slowing economy. This has included rate cuts during the month.
Locally
Private sector expansion continues albeit at a reduced level. Demand and output expanded at solid rates in May, contributing to the lowest unemployment levels in over 40 years. However, the annual pace of wages growth is very modest, by historical standards, considering the tightness in the labour market.
The RBA raised cash rate target by 25 bps to 35 bps. This was the first rate rise since November 2010. With inflation expected to remain elevated markets are pricing in additional hikes.
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