2026 Investment Outlook

Navigating uncertainty with potential opportunity

Our outlook underscores a year of transition as slower labor dynamics and persistent inflation challenge global policy-makers. Structural growth themes like AI investment and fiscal stimulus are poised to provide support for above-trend U.S. economic growth. For investors, navigating 2026 will require balancing high valuations with long-term opportunities to capture upside growth — while thoughtfully positioning against policy and labor market risks.

Insights from our Chief Investment Officer

Chief Investment Officer, Michael Hans, shares highlights from the 2026 Investment Outlook, including key trends and strategies to help you navigate the year ahead.

Key takeaways

  • U.S. growth remains resilient despite labor and inflation challenges.
  • Fed policy is accommodative with further easing expected in 2026.
  • We see investment opportunity across asset classes.
Economic Outlook: Tax, trade and monetary policy

Economic Outlook: Tax, trade and monetary policy

The U.S. economy heads into 2026 exhibiting resilience, benefiting from monetary policy easing by the Federal Reserve, while a weakening labor market, impact of tariffs and inflation remain areas of concern.

Equities Outlook: Positioning for a maturing economic expansion

Equities Outlook: Positioning for a maturing economic expansion

The 2026 equity outlook favors selectivity, with a strong bias towards U.S. large-cap leaders emphasizing names with earnings strength and visibility. We continue to see market broadening by sector and region.

Fixed Income: Positioning for shifting monetary policy risk shifts

Fed policy will continue to focus on the health of the labor market creating a “bull steepener” scenario.

Alternative Investments: An opportunity for investors

In 2026, we see a considerable opportunity to add low correlated sources of potential returns to portfolios driven by well-researched strategies and experienced managers.

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The sole purpose of this material is to inform, and it in no way is intended to be an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any particular security or investment strategy. Alternative investments may involve a high degree of risk, including the potential loss of principal. They may be illiquid, speculative, and not suitable for all investors

Neither asset allocation nor diversification guarantees a profit or protects against a loss.

Citizens Wealth Management (in certain instances DBA Citizens Private Wealth) is a division of Citizens Bank, N.A. ("Citizens"). Securities, insurance, brokerage services, and investment advisory services offered by Citizens Securities, Inc. ("CSI"), a registered broker-dealer and SEC registered investment adviser - Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services may also be offered by Clarfeld Financial Advisors, LLC ("CFA"), an SEC registered investment adviser, or by unaffiliated members of FINRA and SIPC providing brokerage and custody services to CFA clients (see Form ADV for details). Insurance products may also be offered by Estate Preservation Services, LLC ("EPS") or an unaffiliated party. CSI, CFA and EPS are affiliates of Citizens. Banking products and trust services offered by Citizens.

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