After an unusually calm 2017, we have seen volatility return to equities across the globe, with many markets seeing growth moderate.
Amid a market that has chopped sideways so far in 2018, the stocks of US retailers have generally performed well, with a number of major name department stores and retailers seeing positive movement to their share price this year.
Foreign investors have typically shied away
Global capital has only been gradually waking up to the potency of the middle class opportunity in emerging markets, particularly in China, writes Ed Butchart, chief investment officer at Sloane Robinson.
British consumers held up well in the wake of the UK Brexit referendum last year, but signs of weakness have emerged.