The highlights:
- Market volatility surged in February as the approaching end of Trump’s tariff pause on Chinese, Canadian, and Mexican imports unsettled investors. The VIX index hit its highest level this year, driving demand for protection.
- International shares dipped in February, with the US market leading the falls on weakness from the Magnificent 7. China outperformed on renewed policy support.
- Australian shares also stumbled, with cyclical sectors under pressure from inflation fears, rate uncertainty and disappointing earnings.
- Fixed interest markets extended early-year gains as bond yields fluctuated but ultimately fell amid shifting central bank expectations, trade tensions and geopolitical risks.
Read the update here: February Monthly Market Update