400. AI, inflation and the new market regime

In this special 400th episode, we take a broad look at global markets at the halfway point of the year. The discussion between Darius McDermott and Juliet Schooling Latter covers easing geopolitical tensions, inflation dynamics, and the continued influence of AI on equity returns. We explore the broadening of market performance beyond the US, with strength in Asia and emerging markets, alongside challenges in India and a mixed picture in the UK. The episode also examines central bank policy, M&A activity, and structural shifts shaping regional opportunities. Overall, it highlights how diversification and selectivity remain critical in navigating an increasingly complex and fast-moving investment backdrop.

What’s covered in this episode: 

• 400th episode milestone reflections
• Market volatility and geopolitical tensions
• Iran conflict and oil price impact
• Inflation drivers: demand vs supply
• Central bank policy outlook
• Broadening global equity returns
• AI trade and market concentration
• US vs Asia vs emerging markets performance
• Japan’s corporate reform and growth story
• India’s underperformance and drivers
• UK and European equity markets
• M&A activity in UK equities
• Smaller companies valuation opportunity
• Energy, commodities and sector trends
• Central bank divergence across regions

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Please remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.