Contents
Each week, we provide you with the latest news that may impact the market and, consequently, your investments. Stay informed with Compare Wealth Managers. Here’s what investors should know:
Oil & Gold Surge as Middle East Tensions Escalate
Tensions between Israel and Iran flared again, pushing markets into risk-off mode. As reported by Reuters, Brent crude rose nearly 4% on supply concerns, while gold surged past $2,390 amid renewed safe haven demand.
Investment Implications:
- Heightened geopolitical risk: Driving investor appetite for commodities and defensives
- Diversification: Into oil, gold, infrastructure and non-correlated alternatives is back in focu
- Energy equities and hard assets: May offer selective opportunities for HNW investors
Tax Reset on the Horizon, Time to Review
The Financial Times reports that proposed changes to capital gains tax, non-dom rules, and VAT on private school fees are prompting many affluent individuals to reassess their structures.
Investment Implications:
- Act Now on Structuring: H2 tax planning urgency is growing, particularly for trusts, wrappers, and offshore holdings
- Diversify Geographically: Cross-border diversification may help reduce exposure to UK-specific risk
- Prepare for the Budget: Proactive restructuring ahead of the next Budget could preserve long-term efficiency
HS2 Delayed: What It Signals for UK Investment Confidence
According to The Times, the HS2 rail project has been delayed again, now not expected until after 2033, with costs exceeding £80 billion and significant route reductions.
Investment Implications:
- Credibility Concerns: Long-term infrastructure credibility in the UK is under pressure
- Execution Risk Rising: Public-private partnership risk is rising, with implications for institutional capital
- Capital May Shift Abroad: Investors may increasingly favour more reliable jurisdictions for large-scale projects
Markets Summary (as of 20/06/25)
FTSE 100 Index: 8,793.40, up 27.50 points (+0.31%) (Via: ADVFN)
EUR/USD Exchange Rate: 1.1241, up 0.0015 (+0.13%) (Via: WSJ)
Brent Crude Oil: $75.67 per barrel, up $0.45 (+0.60%) (Via: Reuters)
This brief is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a qualified adviser before making any investment decisions.
Looking for a second opinion on your wealth strategy? Compare Wealth Managers connects you with top-rated, FCA-regulated financial advisers, for free. Just click the orange “Start comparing” button to begin or read our 5* Trustpilot reviews.
