Major equity markets were again mixed during the month. Most initially fell sharply as the events in Ukraine and the impact on commodity prices, inflation and economic growth continued to unfold. As the month progressed indices rallied as some of this risk aversion was reversed, with US and Japanese equities ending in positive territory. UK equities meanwhile pushed marginally into the black, with large cap outperforming their mid and small cap counterparts. European stocks meanwhile remained in the red, with their trading links and closer proximity to the conflict causing concerns over growth. Fixed income continued to show weakness. UK high yield ended flat on the month, supported by their closer correlation to equities. Investment grade corporates, along with gilts, struggled on the back of higher inflation figures and the prospects for further interest rate hikes.

Following the maturity of a structured note the proceeds were invested into a new issue. This has a UK equity index as its underlying and a maximum duration of 8 years. To mature with a gain on any of its anniversaries it requires the index to be at or above its initial strike level, paying a coupon of 11.55% simple for each year that it is in force. Within the Fund the strongest performer was the Jupiter Gold & Silver fund, benefitting from the general rise in commodity prices, along with the inflation protection which precious metals can provide. They particularly tend to perform well when real yields on bonds are negative.

The Fund posted a return of 1.92% for March, underperforming the sector average return of 2.98%, due to its more defensive positioning in terms of equity allocation.

This article is for information purposes only and should not be construed as advice. We strongly suggest you seek independent financial advice prior to taking any course of action.

The value of this investment can fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they originally invested. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance.

The Fund is suitable for investors who are seeking to achieve long term capital growth.

The tax treatment of investments depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. The above is in relation to a UK domiciled investor only and would be different for those domiciled outside the UK. We strongly suggest you seek independent tax advice prior to taking any course of action.

Past performance is not a guide to future performance.