In the second quarter of 2026, financial markets reflected a sharp disconnect between rising valuations and underlying economic conditions. Geopolitical uncertainty, persistent inflation concerns, and strong enthusiasm for artificial intelligence-related investments shaped the quarter.
The second quarter of 2025 highlighted both the resilience of financial markets and their sensitivity to policy uncertainty.
The global economy proceeded along the lines that were expected in the second quarter. While there is increasing evidence that growth is slowing, any slowdown still appears manageable and unlikely to result in a recession in the near term.
