Global markets delivered mixed returns over the week as investors balanced encouraging inflation developments and positive AI-related corporate results against higher oil prices resulting from uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz.

Global equity markets weakened over the week as investors balanced encouraging inflation data against renewed geopolitical uncertainty and the start of the US corporate earnings season. 

Last week global markets experienced a more volatile week as investors balanced encouraging geopolitical developments against renewed concerns over technology valuations.

July markets saw plenty of twists and turns, shaped by world events, strong economic numbers, and changing views on interest rates. 

April 2026 demonstrated the resilience of global markets as investors managed persistent geopolitical risks and economic challenges. Read the full report on global investment markets and key fund performance.

March was a challenging month for global markets. We take a look at whats been happening across the investment markets and Zurich's current fund positioning.

The resilience of global equity markets has been a defining feature so far this year. Over the past six months, geopolitical tensions, ensuing energy price shocks, shifting monetary policy and changes in companies’ earnings forecasts have contributed to prolonged periods of uncertainty and heightened volatility.

In our annual Investment Outlook, we review 2025, and as we enter 2026, look at opportunities across the global markets for investors. 

The Zurich Investment Outlook is produced twice yearly by the team at Zurich Investments, based in Dublin, Ireland. This publication provides an in-depth insight into our current thinking and positioning, and expands on the reasons behind our economic views to our clients and customers.