AFR: Why Gen X needs to think about retirement right now

Last night’s Federal Budget has created debate and discussion and much has been published regarding this budget which contains significant changes.

• Global markets declined over the March quarter, with a positive start to the year reversing as conditions weakened through March.
• Australian shares were volatile over the quarter, ultimately finishing lower.
• International share markets declined across most regions over the quarter.
• Fixed interest markets were relatively resilient over the quarter.

Global markets delivered mixed but generally resilient outcomes over the December quarter, as investors navigated shifting expectations for interest rates, valuation pressures and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Early volatility gave way to steadier conditions toward year end, supported by the US Federal Reserve’s December rate cut and continued confidence in corporate earnings. Artificial intelligence remained a key structural theme, while strength in defensive sectors, commodities, and gold helped balance a more selective risk appetite.