- Managers of Wealth - Europe - Wealth, private banking and asset management news and opinion

How should investors navigate geopolitical risks in early 2024?

Despite elevated US-China tensions and multiple conflicts globally including the Israel-Hamas war, risk assets rallied strongly in 2023, especially in the final quarter.

UK annual wage growth slows to 6.5% as vacancies continue falling

Labour market overview

Brits braced for a gloomy 2024 as two thirds expect UK to enter a recession

The research follows recent UK GDP data from the Office for National Statistics which revealed UK GDP fell by 0.1% in Q3 2023

Female appointments to UK financial services boardrooms fell in 2023, amid growing demand for c-suite experience

When asked about the boardroom gender diversity of a firm they are looking to potentially invest in 82% said it has a significant influence.

Morning markets - Unemployment a shade better than expected while European equities set to give back strong returns

Job vacancies continued to decline for what was the 17th consecutive month, with average weekly earnings annual growth rates falling to 6.5% from 7.2%.

Majority of business leaders optimistic about their organization’s growth in 2024

83% plan to increase investments in digital tools and technology, in particular AI as a driver of innovation and revenue growth, in the next 12-18 months. 52% intend to do the same for sustainability

These Are the World’s Most (and Least) Powerful Passports in 2024

The two Asian nations have dominated 1st place on the index (which ranks all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa) for the past five years.

How to add value to your luxury property

Individuals often seek to enhance the value and luxury of their high-end residences.

Ex-banker launches new headhunter boutique

The new headhunter boutique is located in Zurich.

PwC Scotland starts year strong following hat-trick of December deals

As well as elevating Luna’s existing portfolio of solutions, the acquisition of Silixa has extended its reach into exciting new growth sectors, strengthening Luna’s position as an enabler of energy transition.

Holiday pay and entitlement reforms – key action points for employers

We take a look at key actions for employers to consider in light of the significant holiday reforms that came into force on 1 January

Third of UK workers could quit jobs in 2024

The relationship between employers and their employees has shifted fundamentally in recent years.

Surge in number of Ultra High Net Worth buyers in central London

So says a new wealth survey by London estate agency Beauchamp Estates.

ECB publishes new statistics on the distribution of household wealth

The release also follows recommendations of the G20 Data Gaps Initiative.

Eurozone weakness ramps pressure on ECB to start discussing rate cuts

This improving sentiment is yet to translate into activity, with German industrial production this morning reported at -0.7% month on month, below expectations of a flat reading.

40% of Swiss companies hedge their currency risks – estimates of economic development are mixed

As of the end of 2024, the companies surveyed expect the EUR/CHF exchange rate to stand at 0.95. For the US dollar, they forecast a rate of 0.90 against the Swiss franc.

2023 Review & 2024 Outlook

The above were just the big sectors stories.

Insolvencies to reach close to 1,000 in 2024, up from 717 in 2023 - PwC latest Insolvency Barometer

PwC expects further increases in the business failure rate in 2024 with overall insolvency levels projected to reach close to 1,000 - being closer to the average 20 year insolvency rate per year.

Ross secures Bank of Scotland meeting over mobile banking service cuts

Mr Ross – who slammed the plans to stop mobile banking services in six Moray communities when they emerged recently – had requested an urgent meeting with the bank to voice his concerns.

£10,000 in excess savings? Here’s how I’d use a Stocks & Shares ISA and aim for riches!

Staying informed about market trends, adjusting strategies, and maintaining a long-term perspective would be integral for a successful and informed investment journey.

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