BlackRock's Williams: Market conditions in Europe have 'turned a corner'

Political risk diminished

Conditions for European equities have turned a corner and the outlook for the next 12 months appears brighter than it has for some time.

Having fallen out of favour with investors in 2016, there are early signs that flows are beginning to return to the region driven by the diminution of perceived political risk, relatively attractive valuations and improving fundamentals.  Since mid-2016, European growth has strengthened steadily and is now receiving a boost from an unexpected global trade rebound. This synchronised global expansion is incredibly powerful for European companies given around 50% of European earnings come from outside Europe.  Domestically, the region is benefitting from growing confidence, persistent...