May 2019
The S&P/ASX 300 Accumulation Index returned 2.46% for the month of April, with Financials and Consumer Staples the top performing sectors and Materials and Real Estate the weakest performers for the period.
The underlying domestic economy is also weakening given the headwinds from the global slowdown and the pull-back by the consumer in the face of declining house prices and slow wage growth. The Federal election in May will also have a negative impact as consumers and business normally put purchase decisions on hold for 6 – 8 weeks. We expect continued volatility in the Australian equity markets over the next 6 months and are positioned accordingly.
Ralton Concentrated Australian Equity (Australian Shares)
Healius Ltd outperformed during the month, but has bounced around for the last few months after a proposed takeover by its major shareholder.
Ralton Dividend Builder (High Yield Australian Shares)
Amcor, the global packaging company, outperformed the market during the month as it continues to step through the final hurdles for the merger with Bemis.
Ralton Australian Equity Ex 50 (Smaller Companies)
Cooper Energy outperformed the market in April as the Sole Gas Project moved closer to delivery.
Ralton Leaders portfolio
Star Entertainment Group rallied during April after a potential takeover bid for Crown by Wynn Resorts, the US casino operator.