Steering Through Volatility with Purpose
In the September 2025 quarter, markets again showed their remarkable resilience — rising, dipping, and rising again through shifting global currents. At EWK, we liken our approach to that of a seasoned captain steering through unpredictable seas: calm at the helm, guided by compass and chart, with eyes fixed firmly on the horizon.
While the winds and tides of markets may change, our course is deliberately plotted — to navigate volatility, capture opportunity, and keep you progressing confidently toward your financial goals.
Market Pulse: Key Indicators as at 30 Sept 2025
| Date | ASX200 | $A/US | RBA Cash Rate | 5-Year Bonds |
| 30-Sept-2025 | 8775 | 0.655 | 3.60% | 3.78% |
| 30-Jun-2025 | 8542 | 0.650 | 3.85% | 3.430% |
| 31-Mar-2025 | 7843 | 0.625 | 4.10% | 3.606% |
| 31-Dec-2024 | 8159 | 0.620 | 4.35% | 3.945% |
| 30-Sep-2024 | 8269 | 0.690 | 4.35% | 3.587% |
The ASX 200 climbed steadily through the September quarter, supported by moderating inflation and a patient Reserve Bank. The Australian dollar held firm around the mid-0.60s, while bond yields edged higher, reflecting stabilising global growth expectations. Internationally, the S&P 500 and MSCI World indices recorded mixed but positive results, as optimism about disinflation offset concerns around US election noise and geopolitical tensions.
The Long View: 2007 – 2023 (and through to 2025)
When we look back over nearly two decades, the story of investing is not one of straight lines — but of resilience, recovery, and reward for patience.
• 2007–09 (Global Financial Crisis): Markets fell sharply, testing every investor’s resolve.
• 2010–2019: A long recovery unfolded — supported by low rates, innovation, and strong company earnings.
• 2020 (COVID shock): The fastest bear-market drop on record was followed by the fastest rebound, driven by extraordinary stimulus.
• 2021–23: Inflation surged; rates rose rapidly; portfolios were tested again.
• 2024–25: Central banks paused and began easing — lifting confidence and valuations once more.
📈 Figure 1: Global and Australian markets over time — showing that, despite crisis after crisis, patient and diversified investors have been rewarded.
This simple illustration reminds us that while downturns are inevitable, recoveries are powerful — and time in the market remains one of the greatest creators of wealth.
Australia’s interest rate journey (Australia 2007–2025)
💰 Figure 2: The ebb and flow of Australian interest rates — showing how the cost of money has influenced investment climates over time.
Interest rates have shaped the rhythm of every investment journey. In 2007, cash rates stood above 6 %. By 2020 they had fallen near zero — supporting growth but challenging savers. From 2021 to 2023, the RBA raised rates aggressively to counter inflation, reminding us how quickly conditions can shift. Now, in 2025, policy settings are steady at 3.60 %, a level that balances growth support with inflation control — and provides a healthier foundation for investors seeking sustainable long-term returns.
Reflections on the Journey
This long-term perspective reinforces several timeless lessons:
• Downturns test resolve, not strategy. Those who remained calm through uncertainty often emerged stronger.
• Diversification is the ballast. Spreading investments across sectors and regions cushions volatility.
• Patience compounds rewards. The real power of investing lies in years, not days.
• Purpose and planning are your compass. Having a clear plan ensures decisions are guided, not reactive.
“Steady as she goes” is not merely a phrase — it’s a philosophy. Through experience, foresight, and discipline, we navigate changing conditions without losing sight of your long-term destination.
Sources & Market Data Summary
Market data reflects publicly available information as at 30 September 2025.
Figures for the ASX 200, AUD/USD, and Australian 5-Year Government Bond Yield are drawn from Investing.com (Australia) and CountryEconomy.com historical market summaries.
The RBA cash rate references the Reserve Bank of Australia’s official cash-rate target history.
Global equity references use broad market proxies — S&P 500 (US) and MSCI World Index (Developed Markets) — for long-term growth illustration.
Long-term context (2007–2025) aligns with widely published performance data and policy records from the RBA, Reuters, and Macrotrends.
Charts are illustrative and educational, designed to convey historical patterns rather than exact index replication. They emphasise the enduring relationship between market cycles, interest-rate trends, and the benefits of long-term investing.
Warm regards,
Eleonor
Disclaimer
This information is of a general nature only. It does not consider your personal circumstances, objectives, or needs. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Before acting on any information, please seek advice from a suitably qualified financial adviser.
