Key trends in the US and Australia markets by Frick Jones & Ali Roger

Jackson Lucas and our partner firm JMES, have been sharing insights on the Australian and US markets.   JMES Partner Ali Roger and JL Partner Frick Jones shortened the considerable distance between Sydney and New York on a recent catch up.

Here are some key takeaways from their discussion:

🌍 General summary of what’s currently happening in the US market 🌍

It remains a very choppy market in the US and the knock-on effects of the ongoing tariff policies are wreaking havoc, with the constant fluctuations creating continued uncertainty. But any businesses that benefit from the peaks and troughs of market volatility are doing well. Despite the uncertainty in the global market, we continue to see selective and opportunistic hiring.

🌐 Investment Banking view 🌐
The team in the US are seeing a lot of activity in the restructuring teams across the Advisory market with key hires being made. Citi are making an aggressive play for JP Morgan senior banking talent. Bank platforms without a product stream will struggle in the current market and ultimately be viewed as purely regional players.

🌐 Alternatives view 🌐
Private Equity market fairly stagnant in the US, capital tough to be deployed. Secondaries hiring has plateaued slightly, Hedge Funds making hay with the volatility.

🌐 Real Estate view 🌐
Momentum is building; healthier capital markets, falling rates and declining supply are creating a supportive backdrop.  Fundamentals remain strong across most sectors.  While JL are busy with industrial, storage, residential and retail - healthcare REITs and Data Centers seem to be emerging as the quiet power plays.