March Market Update

March was a more difficult month for markets, with investors becoming increasingly nervous about higher oil prices, inflation and growing tensions in the Middle East. Share markets around the world moved lower as uncertainty increased. 
 
In Australia, the ASX 200 declined during the month as higher interest rates and rising energy prices weighed on investor confidence. 
 
In the U.S., markets were also weaker, with technology shares pulling back as investors worried inflation could stay higher for longer. 

What Moved the Markets – Australia 

• Oil prices surged during March, increasing inflation concerns. 

• Higher fuel and energy costs placed pressure on households and businesses. 

• Interest rate expectations remained elevated as inflation stayed stubbornly high. 

• Bond yields moved higher, creating pressure on growth assets. 

• Share market volatility increased as investors became more cautious. 

What Moved the Markets – U.S. & Global 

• Middle East tensions escalated and disrupted energy markets. 

• Oil prices recorded one of their strongest monthly increases in years. 

• Inflation concerns reduced expectations for interest rate cuts. 

• Global share markets declined as investors moved away from risk assets. 

• Despite weaker markets, company earnings generally remained stable. 

Commodities & Defensive Assets 

Oil: Prices surged sharply during March as supply concerns increased. 

Gold: Prices moved higher as investors looked for safer assets during market volatility. 

Silver: Remained volatile, moving with both economic growth expectations and precious metal demand. 

WARNINGS, DISCLOSURES & DISCLAIMERS

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