An update for Q4 2024 from our CEO, Terry Dillon.

Many of you know this year marks 100 years since P.S. Shadforth & Sons, a small stockbroking company, was founded in Hobart.  Over the past century, we've witnessed profound changes in the nation’s economy and financial landscape, from world wars and the Great Depression to stock market crashes in 1929 and 1987, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Global Financial Crisis, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. 

My personal journey with the business began in 1992 when I joined Plan B, a Perth-based advice firm as an adviser.  Plan B was incorporated into the Shadforth business we know today in 2011. To learn more about our history we've produced a short video highlighting our journey to one of the largest and most trusted financial advice firms in the country here. It's well worth a watch!

2024 has also been a strong year on investment markets, with all our clients enjoying positive outcomes.  Encouragingly Australia's inflation rate (CPI) is now within the RBA's target band, sitting at 2.8% for the September quarter.  Take a look at our Research Team's Market Review for a wrap-up of performance across the five main asset classes for the September quarter, along with 1- and 10-year returns.

In this edition of The Edge, we highlight the importance of diversification in managing investment risks and maximising opportunity. We also explore how the designation of 'Dark Sky Places' is helping to reduce the impact of light pollution in our night skies. Additionally, our Head of Technical Services, Jenneke Mills, challenges us to have the conversation around aged care with your loved ones over the festive season.

Next week, you'll receive a brief client satisfaction survey to help us understand how Shadforth and your adviser has served you this year. Your responses are confidential, and we'd greatly appreciate your feedback to help us continue to improve and enhance the services we provide.

Wishing you a wonderful festive season with your loved ones and a safe, enjoyable summer holiday. As always, if you have any feedback or thoughts to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly at ceo@sfg.com.au.