OUTLOOK | 2026Promise and Pressure: Investing in the new frontier of AI, fragmentation and inflation

Investing in 2026 means navigating three powerful forces: artificial intelligence (AI), global fragmentation and inflation. The era of low inflation and seamless globalization has given way to rapid technological change, shifting alliances and more volatile prices. This year’s Outlook explores how AI-driven productivity, persistent inflation and a fractured world order intersect, and considers how resolve and agility may help investors turn structural change into strategic advantage to reach their goals.

Artificial intelligence: Opportunity and disruption

AI is rapidly transforming productivity and corporate profits, with investment and adoption accelerating across industries. While the potential for a market bubble is rising, current gains remain supported by strong earnings and real-world applications. Investors should focus on identifying leaders and smart adopters, while remaining alert to signs of overexuberance. Exposure to AI is increasingly essential for long-term growth, but selectivity and ongoing vigilance are key to navigating this evolving opportunity.

Fragmentation: The end of seamless globalization

Global trade and supply chains are shifting as countries prioritize resilience and security over efficiency. Tariffs, onshoring and new regional alliances are reshaping capital flows, creating both challenges and opportunities across sectors and geographies. Investors should seek out industries and regions that benefit from supply chain reconfiguration and resource security. In this era of fragmentation, diversification across regions and sectors is more important than ever to manage risk and capture growth.

Inflation: A new regime

Inflation has become a central concern for portfolio construction, driven by persistent deficits, supply constraints and changing consumer psychology. Higher and more volatile inflation requires investors to stress-test portfolios and focus on strategies that help maintain purchasing power. Rebalancing and broadening exposures to sectors and assets that can withstand inflation shocks will be critical for sustaining long-term wealth. Proactive planning and flexibility are essential in this new inflationary environment.

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Join our webcast, Outlook 2026: Promise and Pressure

Discover how to navigate a new frontier and position your portfolio for success as a new economic cycle brings both Promise and Pressure.

Key topics include:

  • Harnessing AI for growth and managing disruption
  • Identifying opportunity in a fragmented global landscape
  • Building portfolio resilience amidst persistent inflation

Date: November 18, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. ET