2025 was marked by shifting policy, geopolitical tension and rapid changes in investor sentiment. While easing inflation and cautious rate cuts supported markets, trade tensions repeatedly triggered volatility. Sharp sell-offs—most notably in April following US tariff announcements—were followed by swift recoveries, underscoring market resilience. The year reinforced the value of diversification, discipline and a long-term approach as leadership rotated across regions, sector

2025 was marked by shifting policy, geopolitical tension and rapid changes in investor sentiment. While easing inflation and cautious rate cuts supported markets, trade tensions repeatedly triggered volatility. Sharp sell-offs—most notably in April following US tariff announcements—were followed by swift recoveries, underscoring market resilience. The year reinforced the value of diversification, discipline and a long-term approach as leadership rotated across regions, sector

Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2025 Budget, stating “We are rebuilding our economy.” The plan raises £26bn by 2029/30, expands fiscal headroom, and keeps Labour’s tax pledges. Forecasts show modest growth and falling inflation. Measures include frozen tax thresholds, ISA changes, higher wages, business incentives, housing investment, NHS upgrades, and new duties on vehicles, tobacco and gaming.

Markets saw a healthy pullback in November as AI momentum cooled, valuations reset, and the U.S. government shutdown delayed key data. Sticky inflation and a cautious Fed further weighed on sentiment. Despite global weakness, strong earnings, long-term AI investment, improving valuations, and supportive December seasonality suggest conditions may favor a year-end rebound and constructive outlook ahead.

Recent trade tensions between the United States and China triggered brief market turbulence following new tariff and export control announcements. Despite initial volatility, conciliatory statements from both sides have calmed investor sentiment, with markets showing signs of stabilisation and optimism for future dialogue—particularly ahead of the APEC Summit.

Investment success isn’t about predicting markets - it’s about staying disciplined. Emotional decisions, poor timing, and misreading data can all derail performance. But with the right tech tools and a clear process, investors can avoid common behavioural traps and stick to a long-term strategy. Discipline, not instinct, is the real edge.

Behavioural finance reveals a harsh truth: the biggest risk to an investor’s success is often themselves. The disposition effect—selling winners too soon and holding losers too long, is a common trap driven by emotion, not logic. Neuroscience shows how dopamine and fear shape our decisions, making discipline and strategy essential for long-term success.

Global markets in July showed resilience but faced sharp volatility. Strong earnings and steady growth lifted equities in the U.S., UK, Eurozone, and Japan, yet trade tensions, rising public debt, and mixed inflation created uncertainty. Bond yields climbed, currencies weakened in key regions, and late-month policy concerns reminded investors how quickly sentiment can shift.

Investment bias can quietly sabotage even the best-laid financial plans. From emotional decisions to overconfidence and crowd influence, these biases often lead to poor investment outcomes. This article explores how recognising and reducing investment bias can lead to more objective, disciplined, and successful investment decisions—especially when supported by model portfolio strategies.

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 reveals how AI, climate change, and shifting demographics are reshaping the financial advice profession. Rather than replacing advisers, technology is enhancing their role, empowering them to deliver smarter, more personalised, and values-driven advice. Discover how forward-thinking firms like Clever are adapting to thrive in this new era of finance.