After the announcement of the UK referendum vote to leave the EU, Verante Financial Planning director Liam Shorte told SMSF Adviser there has been an over-reaction in markets, and that the downside has been more than most expected, particularly in foreign exchange markets.
“[This is] an opportunity for people to buy some very good blue-chip stocks, the banks are down almost three per cent so there is be an opportunity to get in for a long term buy,” said Mr Shorte.
Australian companies with a UK exposure, he said, have been worst hit by Brexit.
“Some of those are excellent companies and they’re down over 11 per cent at the moment,” he said.
“If you’re a long-term investor, this could be the best time to start putting that cash into some solid investments.”
Mr Shorte warned SMSFs against investing in Europe at this point, however.
“Even though the vote was [last week], it is going to take two to seven years to negotiate Britain’s exit, so it’s not going to be something that gets sorted out in the short term,” he said.
The large cash exposure held by SMSFs Mr Shorte said has buffeted SMSF investors through the volatility and they should now be looking to take advantage.
“We’re looking at cash flow staying low for the next four to five years, so now is one of those very rare opportunities that you’re going to get into some extra shares at a different price,” he said.
International law firm K&L Gates said the referendum will have “profound consequences not just for the UK and Europe, but will create shock waves across the globe”.
“The referendum vote is expected to lead to a high degree of uncertainty and disruption as businesses come to terms with the new normal of a post-Brexit environment,” said K&L Gates regional managing partner, Europe, Martin Lane.
“Businesses, governments, and regulatory bodies will need to take measures to adjust to the legal, financial, regulatory and technical ramifications of the referendum.”
