Over the week the S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: XJO) finished 0.8% lower, bucking the global trend as domestic issues continued to grow.
Here are my three key takeaways from the week.
ESG becoming mainstream
Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) successfully demerged its liquor and hotels business during the week, which saw a ~4% increase in value for shareholders with Endeavour Group (ASX: EDV) finishing at $6.10.
The move highlights an important trend that is emerging in capital markets known as ESG or Environmental, Social and Governance investing.
In this case, major investors in Woolworths were likely concerned about the group’s position as the largest owner of pokie machines in Australia and its massive alcohol distribution network through the Dan Murphy’s brand.
These issues are a growing focus for me personally, for which I’m currently undertaking an extensive research process to ensure I’m implementing a responsible approach to investing.
Featured: The Rask ethical investing course
Little pain in property
Despite forecasts of doom and gloom, both Charter Hall (ASX: CHC) and Dexus Property Group (ASX: DXS) announced increases in the value of their diverse property portfolios, which include everything from industrial, logistics and offices to residential.
Even retail shopping mall owner Vicinity Centres (ASX: VCX) dropped its valuation only slightly.
With many property assets around the world still trading at discounts to just 18 months ago and with incomes that are linked to inflation, they may have a growing role in portfolios going forward.
Looking under the hood of spending announcements
News of the Biden Administration’s US$1 trillion infrastructure spend were greeted with a significant jump in market sentiment.
However, a closer look at the announcement showed that ‘just’ US$579 billion is in new spending, with nearly half already previously committed.