Most of us live and work in a small geographic area and because we do, we all tend to have a regional basis towards investing. It is not a bad thing, but it is reality. However, as we travel and read we often see people doing the same thing elsewhere. In business, ever since accounting was invented and profits mean profits, wherever in the world you are, the principles apply.

In an article from Reuters, the European Central Bank (ECB) policy makers in December appeared confident that inflation was back to target but saw plenty of risks that still warranted steady policy and high borrowing costs according to the minutes of the meetings.

The ECB left interest rates unchanged and made in clear no further hikes were coming, but it was too early to discuss cutting rates. The minutes said there was no room for complacency, and it was not the time to lower its guard. A need was seen for continued vigilance and patience and for the maintenance of a restrictive stance for some time. The task has not yet been completed.

Investors are expecting rate cuts, but the bank noted it needed to push back against market expectations for rapid policy easing, even if there was unusual uncertainty around the inflation and economic growth outlook.

If the ECB was changed to the Fed would you notice any difference?

Linking to dividend paying stocks, one of the reasons to invest in these types of stocks is the rules for investing are the same throughout the world. You may stick to where you live because it relatively easy to monitor those companies, particularly if you are a user of those services. Companies around the world need to have revenues exceed expenses in order to make profits which means doing your homework can be consistent no matter where you are in the world.

There are more questions than answers till the next time – to raising questions.