Navigating 2026: Key Investment Themes from 8 Industry Leaders
Instead of hosting a webinar this quarter, we’ve gathered views from eight respected investment experts to give you a snapshot of what’s shaping markets in 2026 – and what it means for your investments.
Our Experts
Key Themes
Here’s what our eight experts are watching in 2026. We’ve grouped their insights into 5 key themes to show how markets may move and what it could mean for your investments.
- Bonds & Interest rates
- Equities & Market opportunities
- Alternatives & gold
- Geopolitical (& other) risks
- Investment strategies
Theme 1: Bonds & interest Rates
Key insight: UK government bonds are less attractive than global alternatives, but still offer modest upside if inflation falls and the job market weakens.
Expert Highlights:
“While Gilts are less attractive relative to global alternatives, we still see modest upside as inflation continues to fall.” – David Hood
“Moderate falls in Gilt yields could present an exit opportunity to fuel bets in investment grade bonds.” – Adam Burniston
What this means for you:
- Our investment providers will continue holding selective UK and global bonds to provide income and stability.
- Portfolios are monitored closely for tactical adjustments as yields move.
Theme 2: Equities & market opportunities
Key Insight: Global growth is expected to remain resilient, but valuations are concentrated, especially in the US. Value opportunities are emerging in Europe, Asia, and Emerging Markets.
Expert Highlights:
“Global growth is likely to remain resilient, supported by fiscal spending and gradually easing financial conditions.” – Dan Appleby
“Value opportunities seem to be outside of the US at the moment; Asia, EM, and Europe offer potential.” – Adam Burniston
“We maintain a multi-asset approach with a focus on value in Europe, Japan, Emerging Markets, and the UK.” – Laurence Boyle
What this means for you:
- Equity allocations are diversified globally to capture opportunities.
- Focus remains on balancing growth potential with risk management.
Theme 3: Alternatives & gold
Key insight: Gold and other alternatives remain valuable hedges against inflation, geopolitical risk, and market volatility.
Expert Highlights:
“Gold serves as valuable insurance against risks like dollar weakness, inflation spikes, or geopolitical tensions.” – David Hood
“We maintain our overweight to Gold and Silver due to the positive backdrop for these metals.” – Laurence Boyle
What this means for you:
- Strategic exposure to gold, silver, and alternatives provides portfolio protection.
- These allocations act as a hedge in uncertain market conditions.
Theme 4: Geopolitical (& other) risks
Key Insight: Trade tensions, fiscal policy, and AI/technology risks may create volatility, but the outlook remains cautiously optimistic.
Expert Highlights:
“Markets face concentration risk and uncertainty around AI-related stocks, but diversification remains key.” – Helen Bradshaw
“We remain cautiously optimistic despite geopolitical unpredictability, with portfolios designed to manage both known and unknown risks.” – Darren Ripton
What this means for you:
- Portfolios are structured to weather short-term volatility.
- Diversification across regions, sectors, and asset types helps mitigate risk.
Theme 5: Investment strategies
Key Insight: A disciplined, forward-looking multi-asset approach remains effective in managing risk while capturing opportunities.
Expert Highlights:
“We take a disciplined, forward-looking approach to portfolio construction, integrating equities, fixed income, and alternatives.” – Laurence Boyle
“Portfolios are positioned with a modest risk-on tilt, overweighting equities and alternatives, underweighting fixed income.” – James Burns
What this means for you:
- Portfolios are designed for long-term resilience and growth.
- Multi-asset diversification helps manage risks while seizing opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Financial Advice Centre Ltd Managing Director, Piers Mepsted considers what this means for clients.
“As we enter 2026, markets are likely to remain dynamic, presenting both opportunities and challenges. While no one can predict every twist in the market, we design our client portfolio is designed to navigate uncertainty and capture opportunities, helping you move confidently toward your financial goals. We continue to maintain regular contact with market experts throughout the year, ensuring your portfolio stays on track and aligned with your long-term objectives.”