Well, we have survived the 23rd of June Brexit vote so far, but how stable are things in our financial markets, currency and investments?
Today the British Pound will only buy you €1.17 in Euroland or $1.29 USD across the pond. Over the past month the FTSE100 has risen from £6,301.52 to £6,533.27 with plenty of ups and downs along the way, whilst the FTSE250 has dropped from £17,177.85 to £15,898.81 over the same period, with it's fair share of fluctuation en route. How do you fathom that?
In an effort to stave off the ebb and flow of the markets, investors have sought the safety and refuge of bullion. Gold prices have reached a 2-year high this week of $1,371.79 USD per ounce falling back slightly today to $1,358.65 USD, but commentary from those that know suggest that bullion is running out of steam.
What does all this mean? Well the overriding observation is volatility. Volatility in nearly all types of investments and assets. With volatility you normally get a fairly equal mix of winners and losers. Where you fall is normally the luck of the draw.
On top of this, the Bank of England Governor Mark Carney has spoken of cutting interest rates, possibly taking them negative and on the property front at least six large UK property funds have suspended trading.
So where does this leave the historic car market? Well, the respected
HAGI Index
has reported a 5.26% year to date rise in the historic car market index in which we operate (their index excluding Ferrari and Porsche). More interestingly this increase has accelerated during the last month, leading up to and following the UK's referendum vote. In our experience when cash and investments are not performing, people have headed for the historic car market seeking a sound investment, capital growth, the benefit of HMRC's wasting asset zero tax treatment and most importantly a beautiful motor car you can enjoy!
The market has been difficult in 2016 but only because collectors and enthusiasts are confident and are holding on to cars in their collections. This is creating pressure in supply and demand, with limited quality cars available for the discerning buyers wanting to invest. Prices are steadily rising, stock is in short supply and it shows no sign of abating.
We are highly confident of the Alfa Romeo historic market and the strength of desire in purchasers wanting to own and collect the marque. One would however be right to say we are definitely NOT financial advisors but we are purveyors of beautiful Alfa Romeos and are in tune with their place in a market that shows no sign of slowing. We will continue in our quest to find exceptional cars and new owners to enjoy them.
How will you enjoy, safeguard and grow your nest egg?