McGrath Rathbone Limited

UK economy dodges ‘triple-dip’ recession
Despite widespread concerns to the contrary, the UK managed to avoid slipping into its third recession in five years. The economy grew at a relatively subdued rate of 0.3% during the first three months of 2013, underpinned by improving activity in the services sector. Gilt prices fell and yields – particularly yields on short-dated gilts[.....]
Geopolitical concerns spook investors but Japan soars
Share prices generally advanced during April, although the month was marred by geopolitical concerns. Investor sentiment was undermined by increasingly confrontational rhetoric directed from North Korea to South Korea and the US. Ongoing tensions also escalated between Japan and China over the disputed ownership of islands in the East China Sea while stockmarkets wobbled mid-month[.....]