The rapid rise in interest rates over the last three years led a number of our companies to pause dividend payments but these are starting to pick up again. Falling interest rates are helping to reduce borrowing costs, which in turn supports real estate values and boosts income. We needed patience for the peak in interest rates and the focus has now shifted to further rate cuts, with attention on their timing and scale. This progress reinforces our confidence in the future.
KATE BOLSOVER, CHAIRMAN