EFG 2018 Outlook: our predictions and preferences

Guests assembled at the Bulgari Hotel, Knightsbridge, on 7 February to hear EFG’s predictions and preferences for 2018. Alec McNeill, chair for the evening and deputy head of UK portfolio management, set the tone with a reminder that last year had been a “vintage” one for investors.

EFG’s CIO Moz Afzal reviewed the predictions made a year ago, before taking the plunge with a fresh batch of predictions. These included seeing global growth continue at about the same rate as last year (around 3.5%). While he doubts the world will face another recession in 2018, there are risks of a slowdown as the year progresses. Questions from the floor came thick and fast, Moz said that the market turbulence of recent days had not changed his outlook. He foresees ‘two or three’ Fed interest hikes this year. In emerging markets, he’s positive about Brazil and Russia, despite the half-BRICs being out of favour over the past year or two.

Guests were then delivered a talk by Future Leaders panellist and neuroscientist, Tara Swart. She revealed startling new insights into the way our brains work. She puts the theory into practice through lecturing as well as mentoring senior executives – and on this occasion giving the assembled guests a host of useful best practice pointers.

By the time drinks were served, guests were considering the benefits of an eclectic range of products to stimulate their brain function: from coconut oil, yoga mats and magnesium tablets to a new mattress.

To learn more about EFG’s 2018 Outlook predictions please visit efgoutlook.com