The first half of 2026 was characterised by an increase in volatility in equity markets due to the Iran war, but overall a continued upward trend in those markets thanks in large part to the rapid growth of AI.

The first half of 2026 was characterised by an increase in volatility in equity markets due to the Iran war, but overall a continued upward trend in those markets thanks in large part to the rapid growth of AI.

The first half of 2026 was marked by considerable volatility across global bond markets. Investors contended with persistent inflationary pressures, evolving monetary policy expectations and heightened geopolitical uncertainty.