2019 had been a good year for investors, with the FTSE 100 (measuring the 100 biggest companies listed in the UK) rising by over 12% and the S&P 500 (the top 500 companies in the US) doing even better in dollar terms, rising nearly 29%, driven by strong growth in the share prices of technology companies.

COVID-19 and the lockdowns around the world, which subsequently ensued have had a marked and meaningful impact on the global economy.

The first quarter of 2020 saw 108 structured products mature, of which 19 had been granted ‘Preferred’ status by Lowes at the time of launch.

Managing Director Ian Lowes illustrates how structured products and funds work in volatile stockmarkets and economic crises, such as we are currently experiencing.

Yesterday saw the chancellor announce yet another package to provide support to the UK economy as we all continue to deal with the impact COVID-19 is having on our lives, some unfortunately more than others.

I am pleased to advise that we are close to fully operational, albeit with personnel and Consultants working remotely, over secure connections back to the office servers.