264. Is it time to be optimistic about the UK economy?

City of London Investment Trust manager Job Curtis discusses the current state of the UK economy and provides a more optimistic perspective. While he believes inflation will eventually decline, it may take time to return to previous levels. Job discusses the global exposure of his holdings and the negative perception of the UK market on the global stage. He also reveals what he says is the “hidden secret of stock markets”. The interview finishes with Job highlighting the reliability of the trust to grow its dividends and how companies in the portfolio have managed rising inflation and interest rates.What’s covered in this episode: Pessimism surrounding the UK economyHow wage, food and energy prices influence inflation Why the UK stock market is not the same as the UK economyHow UK equities offer investors potential growth The international exposure of the trustWhy the UK market continues to trade on a discountExamples of M&A activity in the portfolioThe importance of income in a portfolio, no matter your ageHow perceived inflation impacts marketsWhy the manager takes a cautious approachHow the trust is currently positionedThe sectors with the largest allocation todayMore about this fund: The City of London Investment Trust focuses on generating both income and capital growth through its investments primarily in larger UK companies that have international reach. For 56 consecutive years, it has consistently raised its dividend payment. The trust has a conservative approach, which has resulted in consistent and reliable returns over an extended period.Learn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.Learn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.