As I write, there has been the fantastic news that a vaccine has been approved and will be rolled out as soon as possible, even within ten days or so.
As someone aptly put it, it is not the end of the pandemic but, perhaps it is the beginning of the end.
Is the world that emerges from the pandemic the same one that entered it, and are any of us untouched by the last few months?
Has the pandemic created a blueprint for a better future, shone a light on social injustice, and given us a thirst for sustainable products? Is there a more responsible form of capitalism emerging?
Are you all more conscious of what you are consuming, where these products are coming from, and what impact they are having on our world, both globally and locally? Supporting local business has never been more important than in these ‘lockdown’ times.
There will be some massive changes, home and flexible working, complete overhaul of our high streets, with the sad loss of some of the names we have known all our lives, reduction in business travel, and increase in digital communication.
Will this affect our advice to you, and what you want from your investments and investment providers? Undoubtedly, yes, but tempered with good financial practice – such as diversification of assets, geography and sectors, and investing to suit the level of risk you are personally comfortable with.
Does investing with ESG (environmental, social and governance) consciousness mean you have to trade off against strong return? Well, it appears not, some of the best ESG funds are outperforming traditional funds.
At Advice Matters, we are currently looking at how our main providers are acting in the arena and how we can assess what balances prudent financial planning whilst investing to change the world.
Let us know what is important to you and how it will affect how you move forward. We would welcome your input.
Get in touch and let’s chat – 0113 2687928 or email at info@advicemattersfinancialplanning.com