Tuesday, 29 April 2014

April 2014 Review

April saw my net worth increase by 3.3%, with positive movements in all major asset categories.

The value of my investment portfolio increased by around 0.7%. Purchases were limited to standing monthly purchases of the HK & China indices, with no dividends in the month.  I am still in two minds about whether to continue increasing my exposure to China but the monthly investment is currently very small.

My pension fund unit values increased by around 2%, with gains mainly in western equities.

Property rental income was paid in full & on time with no additional expenses.  I increased the recorded value of my property by another 5% following strong market increases & local sales. It is still held at around 10% below the implied market value, reflecting my skepticism around the sustainability of current valuations.

Cash balances increased with good income & average expenses.  The month's expenses included holiday expenditure that had been budgeted for.

Year to date net worth growth: 15.7%
Year to date savings rate: 76%

Wednesday, 2 April 2014

Property valuation

I was shocked again today to see how quickly some UK property prices are rising, particularly around the London area.

Whilst its only around 3 months since i last reviewed and increased the value i record my rental property in my personal finances, checking local valuations again today showed another material increase. The valuations appear to be genuine too, with a neighbouring (and almost identical) property just being sold for around 18% above the value i was holding mine at.

I have therefore decided to add an extra 5% to my property value in my assets and net worth calculations. While this still keeps it around 10% below 'the market', it does reflect the recent increases and allows a margin of error for some fluctuations going forward.

I am also keeping a close eye on potential capital gains tax changes which may determine whether i continue to hold or sell this property.  Whilst it is tempting to sell now and realise a large tax free gain, my cash balances are already too large a proportion of total assets and the rental yield is double what i can earn on cash.