Global equities have returned more than 10% year-to-date in 2026 despite geopolitical tensions, higher oil prices, rising bond yields, and a…

Global equities have returned more than 10% year-to-date in 2026 despite geopolitical tensions, higher oil prices, rising bond yields, and a stronger US dollar. According to Manpreet Gill, Chief Investment Officer for Africa, Middle East and Europe at Standard Chartered ’s Wealth Solutions Unit, resilient corporate earnings and continued optimism around artificial intelligence have helped sustain market momentum. While he expects the second half of 2026 to present a more complex investment environment, he believes the broader bullish outlook for equities remains intact. Gill highlighted that investors will need to navigate evolving energy markets, increased US IPO activity, shifting investor positioning, and changing central bank policies. Standard Chartered maintains a positive outlook on global equities, favouring US markets while increasing exposure to Asia ex-Japan, including India, China, and Taiwan. The bank also recommends maintaining portfolio discipline through diversification and strategic hedges such as gold to capture long-term opportunities amid market volatility. #StandardChartered #GlobalEquities #ArtificialIntelligence #FinancialMarkets #CXOlanesMENA