Markets recovered strongly in January after a very volatile close to the year. The S&P500 added a solid 8%, European markets+5.6%, and Aussie stocks +3.8%.

The US Federal Reserve downgraded economic growth from strong to solid, revealing a level of caution indicating rates on hold for the time being. The US Government was shut down by President Trump for a 3 week period on funding disputes with the Democrats over his planned wall.

China’s ongoing trade dispute with the US saw them release cash into the market by cutting their required reserve ratio (RRR) for banks by 100bps.

Commodities recovered, with Oil +$8 US/bbl, and Iron ore +$13 to $84.50 on supply disruptions in Brazil. Commodity moves helped the AUD higher to 72.9 US cents, and Fortescue rallied 34.8%.