March 2025 Insights
Trump Bump
President Donald Trump’s escalating trade war with countries including Canada, China and Mexico has sparked a pullback in global share markets over the past month (currently -6%) as investors fret over the likely fallout from his move to impose trade barriers on key partners. President Trump’s tariff proposals have been specific to certain products or markets, meaning challenges for some could be opportunities for others. This resulting divergence in sector and market performances creates opportunities for active managers in your portfolio to pick the beneficiaries and avoid those at risk as trade patterns continue to evolve. On balance, the new US administration is still moving in the direction of growth-enhancing policy changes. If we have learned anything in the first two months of 2025, it is that the world has become more uncertain since November and the market’s response even more so. In this unpredictable environment, modern portfolio theory is key: 'diversification is the only free lunch in investing'.
Aspirations Sponsorship for Financial Counselling
By Anne Noakes
Last year, Aspirations Wealth Group graciously sponsored my pursuit of the qualification detailed above, enabling me to follow my passion for supporting individuals in the community who are less fortunate—particularly women and children who have survived family and domestic violence. I am pleased to share that I have successfully completed all requirements for the Diploma and am now practising as a Financial Counsellor with Lifeline.
Financial counsellors play a critical role in helping families manage debt obligations, particularly during times of financial hardship. Fortunately, the amendments to Credit Law, implemented approximately a decade ago, have established vital protections for consumers facing difficult circumstances, such as illness, unemployment, or domestic violence. In these situations, a financial counsellor can negotiate a moratorium on repayments, arrange longer-term payment plans, or, in some cases, facilitate a complete waiver of the debt—especially when domestic violence is involved. Surprisingly 'the big four banks' are often the most generous when applying for payment arrangements or waivers for clients.
While the work can be emotionally challenging, complex, and at times heart-breaking, it is incredibly rewarding. Those who benefit from these services consistently express immense gratitude for the support and assistance they receive.
Once again, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Aspirations Wealth Group for their generous sponsorship, which has enabled me to make a meaningful impact in assisting the most vulnerable members of our community. Without their support, this would not have been possible.
Any advice contained in this insight/update is general advice only and does not take into consideration the reader’s personal circumstances. To avoid making a decision not appropriate to you, the content should not be relied upon or act as a substitute for receiving financial advice suitable to your circumstances. When considering a financial product please consider the Product Disclosure Statement. Aspirations Wealth Group is a Corporate Authorised Representative of Aspirations Private Wealth Pty Limited. ABN 57 622 182 076 – AFSL 503889.