Three Strategies for Investors to Navigate the UK Autumn Budget

Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst

Source: CNBC

Updated: Nov 25 2025

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Source: CNBC

Investor Sentiment on U.K. Budget: Investors are viewing the upcoming Autumn Budget by Finance Minister Rachel Reeves with pessimism, yet see potential opportunities in sectors like U.K. housing, currency, and cyclical equities, particularly if stamp duty is cut to stimulate the housing market.
Howden Joinery Group's Potential: John White from Calibrate Partners believes that a significant reduction in stamp duty could revitalize the U.K. housing market, benefiting companies like Howden Joinery Group, which he sees as well-positioned for growth amid a housing rebound.
Currency and Fiscal Concerns: Mark Dowding of RBC BlueBay Asset Management is shorting the U.K. pound, anticipating that continued economic struggles and potential tax hikes will weaken the currency, while expressing skepticism about the government's ability to manage fiscal challenges effectively.
Contrarian Opportunities in Cyclical Stocks: Man Group highlights that the current negative sentiment towards U.K. equities presents contrarian investment opportunities, particularly in undervalued cyclical stocks, as medium-term improvements in housebuilding and falling interest rates could drive growth.

About the author

Emily J. Thompson

Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.