Stock Market Review

by Paul Coffin

Markets saw a good recovery in the last quarter of 2023 and improved sentiment has carried over into 2024. The reason was a change of consensus over the future direction of interest rates.

For most of 2023 we had been expecting inflation to fall, pointing out that we did not expect interest rates to go higher. As inflation data came out much lower in October first in the US and then the UK, the markets began to believe that inflation was under control and that there could be scope for rate cuts in 2024.

As of writing, banks have begun to reduce borrowing and mortgage rates. We expect base rates to fall to 4% by the end of 2024, 1.25% lower than they currently stand. Indeed, they may end up slightly lower. This news was good for shares as is usually the case and many stock markets rose between 5% and 10%…

In the UK there has been much comment about the London Stock Market being in poor shape. It is certainly true that the Government needs to boost reasons to own shares. Firstly, they need to allow pension funds to hold more shares and to encourage private investors. To encourage this Capital Gains Tax should be cut and taxes on dividends reduced. Regulation needs to be reduced so that investment managers decide where to invest not regulators…

The full commentary is available in the CFM Quarterly Newsletter sent out to our clients. If you would like more information on this and becoming a client please contact support@capitalfinancialmarkets.co.uk 

Emma Tuckett

Investment Manager

Well-respected Investment Manager, Emma Tuckett, has joined CFM following a successful career at Killik & Co.

After nearly a decade working in Trading and Investments, Emma has worked with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and has extensive experience in Advisory and Discretionary Investment Management, with a particular focus on ESG investing and helping clients align their investments with their long-term objectives and values.

emma.tuckett@capitalfinancialmarkets.co.uk

Joanne Hill

Compliance Manager

Joanne has joined Capital Financial Markets as Compliance Manager having worked in the Independent Financial Advice sector for over 30 years. 

Joanne holds a degree in Business and Finance, the CII Diploma in Financial Planning and has a wealth of experience and knowledge within Financial Services.  Joanne’s role is to protect both Capital Financial Markets and our Clients.

joanne.hill@capitalfinancialmarkets.co.uk

Saffron Heasley

Client Administrator

We are delighted that Saffron joined the CFM team as our business apprentice capably fulfilling the Client Administrator role. Saffron brings enthusiasm, reliability and a strong willingness to learn. In this role, Saffron supports the smooth day-to-day running of the business, providing essential administrative support across the team helping to ensure processes run efficiently and compliantly.

With a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach, Saffron is developing a solid foundation while working closely with colleagues across the organisation. Saffron is a valued member of the team and plays an important role in supporting CFM’s operations as we continue to grow.

saffron.heasley@capitalfinancialmarkets.co.uk

Paula Mitchell

Head of Operations & People

Having worked with us as a consultant for over eight years Paula brings that familiarity to the organisation and has joined the CFM team as Head of Operations & People.

A seasoned finance and HR professional with a masters in HR Management, Paula combines analytical strength with a people-centred approach to drive operational excellence. Paula will be leading the team and supporting Paul with the operations and people strategy ensuring sustainable growth and the smooth running of the business.

paula.mitchell@capitalfinancialmarkets.co.uk