The Financial Outlook for Personal Investors: Themes to watch for 2024

Russ Mould of A J Bell suggests the themes investors should watch out for in 2024. Equity markets seem optimistic while the gilts market – with an inverted yield curve – suggests a recession is likely and the commodity markets seem completely confused. Debt, however, is the biggest issue in the world, creating a headache for central banks. China, France and, soon, the US will all be using 20% of tax income for meeting interest costs. Scary enough in itself, if there's a recession, tax income will drop while welfare payments will soar. In summary, whatever has driven the markets in the past 10 years may not work for the 10 years, but there will always be opportunities.