Looking back on a mixed year for markets

With 2006 about to be consigned to the history books, it will be remembered as a mixed year for mark...

With 2006 about to be consigned to the history books, it will be remembered as a mixed year for markets, with a major mid-year correction followed by record highs from several indices. While all markets suffered from the correction, Japan has once again failed to live up to expectations after many analysts picked it as one to watch at the start of the year. A much heralded end to the country's zero interest rate policy during the year was seen by many as tangible evidence of a sustainable recovery in the region but it has once again flattered to deceive. Looking into 2007, consensus sugge...