Australian Ethical has been applying its pioneering and authentic ethical investment process in all sorts of market conditions and scenarios for close to 40 years. We draw on all of this experience and expertise to navigate the market movements, while looking for opportunities to improve investment returns for the future. 

The share market ups and downs of recent months became more pronounced on April 2 when US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on imports from all countries, and additional tariffs on countries with large trade deficits to the US. 

Share markets have been reacting to this news, partly due to the uncertainty created by these announcements, and partly because of the fear that tariffs might slow down the economic growth which fuels share market returns. 

At Australian Ethical, we believe we are well placed to navigate these ups and downs and continue to generate returns over the long term.  

Our superannuation fund and managed funds invest in various asset classes, so when share markets are down, our investments in fixed income and private markets, for instance, tend to provide stability and diversification away from equity markets.   

We also have a strong focus on valuation, something we have talked about recently as share prices in the US technology sector have been rising. This means we are reluctant to overpay and be left holding overpriced and therefore more risky investments. Our Ethical Charter has steered us clear of companies involved in fast fashion, which have been particularly hard hit by tarriffs in recent times.

If you’re feeling worried about investment returns, you may wish to seek financial advice before making decisions based on the short term versus the longer term of holding onto investments. Investors who sell out after heavy market falls could 'lock in' their losses and thereby miss out on a possible recovery. We outlined some tips if you’re checking your investment performance or considering which investment option is right for you.