Markets trended sideways in February amid rising inflation and geopolitical uncertainty. The Balanced portfolio returned -0.37% as UK and EU rate cuts contrasted with the US Fed’s cautious stance. Inflation rose across regions, with UK CPI hitting 3.00% and the ECB reassuring that disinflation remains on track. While developed and emerging markets showed mixed performance, China led gains. Volatility persists, but history suggests potential progress as the year unfolds.