Premier Fund is recovering gradually. It gained 1.3% this month, which brings the year to date return to 7.5%. The returns were generated by positive contributions from all the asset classes. Property contributed 1.7%, Equity 2.3%, Bond 0.6% and International Equity 1.2%. The returns came on the back of a shift in the risk sentiment in September. Markets were up firmly by the middle of the month but the attack in the Middle East led to a spike in oil prices, which raised some major concerns over the possibility of war in Iran.

Positive sentiment has faded and risk appetite reduced again although the market has not moved back to the levels of mid-month. Interest rates in South Africa also remained unchanged for the month which disappointed some market participants hoping for additional stimulus into the market. The Fund is positioned cautiously considering the current volatility.