UOB Asset Management Forecasts Stronger Growth as Headwinds Recede in 2026

SINGAPORE, Jan. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- UOB Asset Management (UOBAM) has released its 1Q 2026 Quarterly Investment Strategy, signalling a more constructive investment environment as fiscal and monetary tailwinds strengthen and corporate fundamentals remain robust.

According to the report, global markets delivered strong returns in 2025 despite tariff-related headwinds, and data trends indicate that the initial negative effects of trade conflicts have largely receded. Entering 2026, UOBAM expects economic risks to ease, supported by fiscal incentives, interest rate cuts in the US, and robust AI-driven investments. Corporate earnings are also projected to rise at double-digit rates across major regions, led by Asia at 18 percent.

For the first quarter, UOBAM is therefore tilting slightly overweight towards equities, particularly in Asia and the US, while maintaining diversification across fixed income and commodities. Anthony Raza, Head of UOBAM Multi-Asset Strategy, said "While the music is playing, we have to keep dancing. With strong corporate earnings and healthy balance sheets in the tech sector, we believe the market expansion cycle can continue. At the same time, diversification remains important to manage risks and capture opportunities across different scenarios. This balanced positioning provides resilience and maximises the potential for positive returns as conditions improve."

Within equities, UOBAM continues to favour Asia, citing attractive valuations, strengthening currencies, and robust domestic demand. The US is upgraded to overweight on the back of strong technology and AI-driven growth.

Within fixed income, UOBAM analysts believe diversification in fixed income categories will be useful as valuation risks grow. The firm recommends a disciplined approach focusing on high-quality developed market credits and select emerging market sovereigns.

Within commodities, gold remains a preferred safe-haven asset amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and structural demand from central banks.

For deeper insights across equities, fixed income, currencies and commodities, read the full Q1 2026 Investment Strategy: https://www.uobam.com.sg/insights/qis1q26.page

About UOB Asset Management

UOB Asset Management Ltd (UOBAM) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of United Overseas Bank Limited. Established in 1986, UOBAM has nearly 40 years of experience in managing collective investment schemes and discretionary funds in Singapore, making us among the largest unit trust managers by assets under management. As of 30 November 2025, we manage 63 unit trusts in Singapore and together with our subsidiaries, oversee S$40.8 billion in clients' assets.

Headquartered in Singapore, UOBAM has a strong presence across Asia, with business and investment offices in Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. Our network includes UOB Islamic Asset Management Sdn Bhd in Malaysia, a joint venture with Ping An Fund Management Company Limited (China) and strategic alliances with partners such as Wellington Management Singapore.

UOBAM is one of the region's most awarded asset managers, with over 360 awards won. In 2025, we were recognised as the Best Asset Management Company (Regional) by the Asia Asset Management and previously named Best Asset Management House in Asia – 20 Years in 2023. Our digital innovation has also earned top honours, including Best Digital Wealth Management in Asia^[1] and Best Robo Advisory Initiative^[2] for 3 consecutive years as of 2024.

As a leader in sustainable investing, UOBAM was awarded Best application of ESG in ASEAN^[3] (2023) and has received multiple sustainability accolades in Indonesia and Thailand. Our artificial intelligence capabilities were also recognised with the Most Innovative Application of Artificial Intelligence (ASEAN) for 2 consecutive years^[4].

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SOURCE UOB Asset Management