French election: Volatility warning as markets soar on Macron success

Analysts have warned the early victory of Emmanuel Macron in the first round of the French presidential election does not spell the end of volatility on the continent despite markets soaring in early Monday trading.

French election: Volatility warning as markets soar on Macron success

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Protecting against a market correction was raised by Pioneer’s head of global asset allocation research Monica Defend.

She said: “Overall, we favour Europe and Japan, reflecting the improvements in the macroeconomic backdrop and relatively attractive valuations.

“However, we continue to see the resurgence of volatility to be a key risk, given the number of geopolitical challenges still at play. Against this backdrop, we believe that investors should continue to keep hedging in place through volatility strategies, US Dollar exposure and Gold.”

Macron, aged 39, would be France’s youngest ever president if he wins the second round of votes in May.

Supportive of the EU, the former economy minister campaigned on promises to cut tax and spending and invest €50bn (£42bn) in public infrastructure as well as cut corporation tax and red tape and allow companies to renegotiate the 35-hour working week.

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