Core Viewpoint - The Bank of England has decided to maintain the current interest rate at 4.25%, reflecting a cautious approach amid economic uncertainties and concerns over inflation and global geopolitical tensions [1][3][10] Economic Environment - The UK economy is facing a complex situation with a weakening job market and slowing wage growth, yet inflation remains above the Bank's target of 2% [3][4] - Global factors such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and US-China tech decoupling are impacting the UK's economic landscape, making it more challenging for the Bank to adjust interest rates [6][7] Monetary Policy Considerations - The current stance of the Bank of England is characterized as a "tactical wait," as inflation has not sufficiently decreased, and there are risks associated with lowering rates too quickly [3][4] - The Bank's decision to keep rates steady is seen as a strategy to control inflation expectations and avoid triggering a new wave of inflation or asset bubbles [4][6] Structural Economic Issues - The UK economy is losing growth drivers, with diminishing contributions from traditional sectors like finance and real estate, while emerging sectors are lagging behind competitors [7][9] - The government's limited fiscal space and reliance on the Bank's monetary policy for economic stimulus further complicate the situation [7][9] Market Expectations - Investors are cautiously optimistic about potential rate cuts, but the Bank of England is entering a "cautious easing" phase, where minor adjustments may not yield significant effects [9][10] - The upcoming months will be critical for assessing the Bank's ability to navigate economic challenges and maintain policy independence amid external pressures [10]

Core Viewpoint - A-shares continue to rebound in May, supported by a series of favorable policies, with a recommendation for fund allocation to maintain a balanced style while slightly favoring growth and focusing on fund managers' stock selection and risk control capabilities [1][2]. Fund Investment Strategy - In May, the manufacturing PMI was 49.5%, an increase of 0.5 percentage points from the previous month, aligning with the levels of the past three years. The internal resolution of low inflation is crucial, as external factors are less significant due to China's manufacturing competitiveness [2]. - The strategy team believes that emerging technology remains a long-term mainstay in the A-share market, while cyclical finance may become a dark horse. Additionally, cyclical products with improved competitive dynamics and tight supply-demand logic, as well as new consumption areas driven by demand and innovation, are also worth attention [2]. - The market structure of value and growth styles will likely continue to present structural investment opportunities in 2024, suggesting a slight preference for growth in fund allocation while maintaining overall balance [2]. Bond Funds - June is a critical transition period for strategies, recommending a combination of liquidity and yield in position selection, and to prepare for the next round of interest rate declines by switching to more liquid varieties [3]. - With the recovery of the equity market, fixed income plus funds also hold certain allocation value, warranting continued attention [3]. QDII and Commodity Funds - Global central banks' gold purchasing behavior reflects a long-term and ongoing trend, indicating a restructuring of the global monetary system due to changes in trust foundations [3]. - The rise of trade protectionism and the restructuring of the global economy will increase economic differentiation, supporting residents' demand for gold [3]. - The current gold bull market is characterized by different driving factors and pricing frameworks, suggesting a potentially long cycle for the bull market, thus recommending appropriate allocation to gold ETFs from a long-term and hedging investment perspective [3].