Zemek says 'scary' markets will prompt back to basics approach

clock •

AXA IM fund veteran Theo Zemek believes ‘scary' markets will prompt a call for a 'back to basics' approach to investment with shock waves not over yet for investors.

Zemek, global head of fixed income at Axa IM, says current markets are the 'scariest' she has seen in 25 years and the 30s depression analogy is not so far from the truth. She believes complex financial instruments, opacity and credit guarantees will be out of favour. Meanwhile, quaker investment policies- sober, plain and simple- will be the order of the day. Zemek says: “I don’t buy anything I don’t understand such as SIVs, CDOs and alphabet soup. It is just taking a gamble. I haven’t and don’t intend to do it.” Despite bond markets being quite unattractive last year, IFAs ex...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

Stock market crashes – the rational and the emotions

Stock market crashes – the rational and the emotions

'Several characteristics associated with previous pre-crash periods are present today'

Paul Wood
clock 30 September 2026 • 5 min read
Baillie Gifford workforce faces 10% reduction following voluntary exit programme

Baillie Gifford workforce faces 10% reduction following voluntary exit programme

Around 160 roles vacated

clock 23 September 2026 • 1 min read
Nine SJP funds flagged for underperformance in AoV despite improvements on last year

Nine SJP funds flagged for underperformance in AoV despite improvements on last year

89% of assets given green light

Alex Sebastian
clock 22 September 2026 • 2 min read