IO asset manager survey: structural risks are rising, but risk appetite holds up
For the second time, the editorial team of Investment Officer conducted a year-end survey among large asset managers operating in Europe. The aim was to assess their outlooks for 2026 based on a standardized set of proprietary questions. The common thread is that risks have become structural, without leading to a flight from risk assets.
Geopolitics emerges as a structural market risk in 2026
Geopolitical risk once entered markets through sudden shocks. Going into 2026, leading investment managers and economists see a more persistent source of pressure: structural forces reshaping a world that is fracturing.
Europe thé comeback category for 2026, according to asset managers
Around one-third of asset managers active in Europe expect a comeback for European equities in 2026. They consider stocks from the region to be inexpensive and expect the planned large-scale European government investments in areas such as defense and infrastructure to act as a catalyst.
‘Coffee prices are excessively high’
Volatile prices make the coffee market an attractive arena for trading. However, downside risks currently dominate, experts warn.
Inflation and tight spreads: bonds discouraged for 2026
Stay away next year from “long” government bonds and from corporate bonds, both high yield and investment grade. Profligate governments and poor risk-return profiles will spoil the mood in those markets.
India gains recognition as diversification anchor
India is drawing fresh interest from global investors as domestic demand, rapid digitalization and a deepening capital market give it resilience few major economies can match. Emerging market specialists say these qualities are becoming increasingly relevant for diversified portfolios.
Your Investment Soundtrack: The Companies Behind BL Equities Japan
When it comes to investing, there’s never a shortage of noise—constant market updates, countless opinions, and promises of quick profits. It’s easy to lose sight of what investing truly means: owning real businesses that create lasting value.
Dividends, a compass to navigate through uncertain times
For centuries, dividends were the measure of a stock's success. Yet the past four decades saw dividend investing fade into the background as cheap credit and rising valuations rewarded speculation over cash returns.
Investors favor EM equities over those from the US in 2026
A majority of large asset managers are most optimistic about equities for 2026, particularly those from emerging markets. US equities remain a strategic cornerstone, while Europe and Japan play a smaller but growing role in geographic diversification.
Bankhaus Metzler expects 10 percent profit for German equities in 2026
Bankhaus Metzler is preparing for another year of strong performance in German equities. The nearly 20 percent rise in the DAX this year will likely not be matched in 2026, said equity strategist Uwe Hohmann, but an increase of 10 percent is within reach.