As the global economy moves through 2026, investors are adjusting to a new reality where geopolitical risks, higher interest rates, and capital discipline play a larger role in investment decisions. Rather than chasing short-term market momentum, capital is increasingly flowing towards assets that offer resilience, income generation, and long-term value. According to IQI Chief Economist Shan Saeed, global markets are no longer simply reacting to geopolitical events. Instead, geopolitical developments are now being structurally priced into investment strategies across asset classes, making policy credibility and economic stability increasingly important considerations for investors. Capital Is Shifting Towards Quality Assets Global economic growth is expected to remain relatively stable at 2.8% to 3.2%, while inflation gradually moderates. However, the world is likely to remain in a higher-for-longer interest rate environment, creating a more disciplined investment landscape. Investors are becoming increasingly selective, focusing on assets that can generate sustainable returns rather than relying on liquidity-driven growth. This shift is also supporting renewed interest in fixed income investments, as bond yields remain attractive and provide investors with a credible income-generating alternative alongside equities. At the same time, commodities continue to benefit from geopolitical risk premiums, particularly oil, industrial metals, and gold. Real Estate Re-Emerges as a Strategic Allocation One of the clearest themes in 2026 is the return of real estate as a core portfolio allocation. As valuations reset and yields normalise, investors are increasingly allocating capital towards logistics infrastructure, data centres, and prime residential assets. These sectors are being viewed not only as income-producing investments but also as effective inflation hedges and long-term stores of value. Growing demand for digital infrastructure, supply chain resilience, and quality housing continues to support investment activity despite broader market uncertainty. Outlook The second half of 2026 is expected to favour disciplined investors who prioritise fundamentals over speculation. While geopolitical tensions and market volatility remain key risks, opportunities continue to emerge in sectors supported by strong structural demand. Real estate, logistics infrastructure, data centres, and quality income-producing assets are likely to remain well positioned as investors increasingly focus on resilience, diversification, and long-term wealth preservation. In today's environment, success is no longer about chasing momentum. It is about allocating capital with precision and confidence. Discover More HereDownload

As global uncertainty, inflation concerns, and geopolitical risks continue shaping investment decisions, cross-border real estate is becoming a core wealth-building strategy for UAE residents. Rather than focusing solely on domestic markets, investors are increasingly using international property portfolios to diversify risk, preserve wealth, and secure long-term financial stability. This trend is placing Dubai at the centre of global real estate investment activity. Dubai Leads the Cross-Border Investment Trend Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's most active international property markets. Real estate transaction values approached AED 500 billion in 2025, supported by sustained double-digit annual growth and increasing participation from overseas buyers. Indian investors remain the largest foreign buyer group, followed by investors from the UK, China, Saudi Arabia, and Russia. More importantly, many of these purchases are being made as long-term wealth and residency strategies rather than short-term speculation. Real Estate as a Wealth Preservation Tool For many UAE-based professionals, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals, cross-border property ownership offers more than investment returns. It provides protection against currency concentration, reduces dependence on a single market, and supports long-term family wealth planning. Real estate's combination of rental income, inflation protection, and tangible asset ownership continues to make it a preferred asset class during periods of uncertainty. Recent data also highlights growing institutional confidence in the sector. According to Knight Frank's Global Wealth Report, 44% of family offices worldwide plan to increase their real estate exposure, reinforcing the view that property remains a key component of long-term wealth strategies. Outlook As global investors become more focused on diversification and resilience, Dubai is expected to remain a major gateway for international property investment. While market conditions continue evolving, demand for cross-border real estate is likely to stay strong as investors prioritise wealth preservation, geographic diversification, and stable long-term returns. For UAE residents, building a globally diversified property portfolio may become an increasingly important part of future wealth planning. Download to see insights from other country marketsDownload

Canada’s housing market is beginning to stabilise in 2026 as lower prices, improving affordability, and reduced borrowing costs gradually bring buyers back into the market. While elevated inventory levels continue to provide buyers with negotiating power, improving sales activity suggests confidence is slowly returning after a challenging period for the sector. Toronto: Sales Activity Improves One of the clearest signs of recovery can be seen in Toronto, where home sales rose 7% year-on-year to 5,946 transactions. Although new listings declined and benchmark prices remain below last year's levels, market conditions have started tightening as buyer activity improves. This suggests that demand is gradually returning, supported by better affordability and easing financing conditions. Vancouver: Detached Homes Lead Market Confidence In Vancouver, market performance remains mixed, but detached homes are showing encouraging signs of strength. Detached home sales increased 14%, indicating renewed confidence among buyers seeking larger properties. While benchmark prices remain lower than a year ago, values continue to hold above long-term averages, reflecting the underlying resilience of the market. Market Conditions Remain Balanced Across Canada, elevated housing inventory continues to create a balanced market environment. Buyers still have room to negotiate, while sellers are adjusting expectations in response to changing demand patterns. This balance is helping support a healthier market recovery compared to the rapid price growth seen in previous years. The combination of improving affordability, lower borrowing costs, and stable inventory levels is creating a more sustainable foundation for long-term market growth. Outlook Canada's housing market is expected to continue its gradual recovery through the second half of 2026. While price growth is likely to remain moderate, improving affordability, lower financing costs, and returning buyer demand should support stronger activity across major markets. If economic conditions remain stable, Toronto and Vancouver could lead the next phase of market improvement, while balanced inventory levels help maintain market stability. Download to see insights from other country marketsDownload