Economy

• Global investment banking activity has rebounded sharply during 2026, supported by improving market confidence.

• Private credit has grown into one of the fastest-expanding segments of global financial markets, with assets approachingUS$2 trillionglobally.

• Wall Street's second-quarter earnings season has begun with stronger-than-expected results from major financial institutions.

• Investors continue assessing potential risks to global oil supply and shipping routes.

• Semiconductor stocks continue outperforming broader equity markets as artificial intelligence investment remains exceptionally strong.

• Sovereign wealth funds now manage more thanUS$15 trillionin assets globally, making them among the largest institutional investors in the world.

• The International Monetary Fund has urged governments to preserve fiscal credibility and maintain price stability amid elevated global uncertainty.