In September 2025, the average prudential balanced portfolio returned 2.7% (August 2025: 1.1%). The top performer is the NinetyOne Managed Fund, with 3.5%. The Investment Solutions Balanced Growth Fund, with 2.2%, takes the bottom spot. M&G Managed Fund takes the top spot for the three months, outperforming the ‘average’ by roughly 0.9%. The Investment Solutions Balanced Growth Fund underperformed the ‘average’ by 1.1% on the other end of the scale. Note that these returns are before (gross of) asset management fees.

The Monthly Review of Portfolio Performance to 30 September 2025 reviews portfolio performances and provides insightful portfolio analyses.

How Does a US Government Shutdown Impact Markets?

Investors are generally advised to view shutdowns as short-term interruptions rather than threats to market stability. Over the 20 shutdowns since 1976, the S&P 500 has averaged a gain of 0.05% during the shutdown period itself. 

Despite the attention they receive, these events rarely derail financial markets, highlighting the resilience of equities and other asset classes. However, shutdowns are not without consequences.

Read paragraph 6 of the Monthly Review of Portfolio Performance to 30 September 2025 for an interesting perspective on global equity sectors.