Having been on this mortal coil for many years I am going to have it “put in my arm” this coming Friday. This is first time in many years I have been grateful that I’m not actually the 40 year old I think I am. Clearly Covid continues to have a huge impact on markets throughout the world even though the news on vaccines is positive. Being realistic this will continue for some time yet, although the impact is nowhere near that which it was last year. All the major markets have recouped the losses they suffered last year to one degree or another. The UK has lagged the USA and the Far East as has mainland Europe largely because of Brexit.

Now is the time to start thinking about topping up you ISA contributions for the tax year 20/21. Not only does it make sense to use up your allowance, but you should also have a good look at any cash ISA’s you may hold as the rates are getting even worse. This may well be the time to switch to a stacks and shares ISA. Before doing so make sure to talk to us about risk management and suitability.

Finally keep your fingers crossed that the Inauguration across the pond goes through without any difficulties, the impact of serious civil, or not so civil, unrest could be significant on the USAs markets.

So, to the markets.