What a difference a year can make. Twelve months ago the world was in the grip of the Global Financial Crisis. Credit markets were effectively closed, sharemarkets had halved in value, economic activity had come to a sudden halt, and investors saw only darkness ahead. Few were prepared to forecast that, 12 months on, investors would have a far more constructive view of the world.

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How did Australia make it through the global recession so unscathed? 

What will drive the sharemarket in 2010? 

What are your expectations for the year ahead? 

What are the key risks for 2010 and beyond?

How do global investors view Australia? 

Read the views of Stephen Halmarick, Colonial First State>>>

Australian shares have enjoyed a fabulous run lately, with the sharemarket rising around an amazing 25% over the last three months. The big gains have also provided a much-needed boost to investor confidence.

According to the latest Westpac- Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index, 12% of us reckon shares are the best place to park our savings at present. That’s about double the proportion who nominated shares back in March.

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