October saw a slight pullback across global markets as equities fell, particularly in emerging markets, while bond yields adjusted from September's rally. Despite core inflation ticking up, US inflation trends remained stable, with oil prices unaffected by Middle Eastern tensions. Locally, South African inflation remains low, the rand held relative strength, and SA bonds still offer attractive yields, with this pullback presenting favourable entry points, especially for longer-term bonds.

In this article, we highlight that historical data shows little difference between returns from all-time highs versus average conditions, challenging the notion that market highs could signal imminent downturns.

https://pensionsworldsa.co.za/articles/special-feature/index-investing-a-global-investing-revolution-growing-in-sa/