Over the last few weeks we’ve seen increased levels of volatility in some financial markets, like the share market, in response to an increase in tariffs in the US and related global trade tensions. 
 
Shares are typically expected to provide a higher return over the long term than most asset classes, however, they come with a higher level of volatility in returns and the possibility of negative returns over the short term. This has been the case recently although the uncertainty currently impacting financial markets follows several strong years. 
 
That is a key reason why we design our pre-mixed investment options with a diversified mix of investment asset classes and strategies, so our portfolios are not reliant on one single driver, like shares, to deliver strong long-term returns. Indeed, while shares have been declining more recently, other strategies in our portfolios have provided positive returns in reaction to the news on tariffs, such as fixed income.
 
We also remain active in our investment approach. Our investment strategy is designed with a mix of active strategies to take advantage of ebbs and flows and help provide a smoother ride during times of volatility. We purposely allocate funds across our asset classes where we see risks and opportunities as they emerge. And that has certainly been the case recently, where we have tended to hold less equities than normal in many of our portfolios. 
 
As always, if you are at all uncertain about what pre-mixed investment option is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our award-winning advice team.