Disruptive Forces in Investing

Solving for 2026: Policy Crosscurrents, AI, and Where to Position Now

Dec 16, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Maya Bhandari, CIO for Multi-Asset EMEA at Neuberger Berman, and Shannon Saccocia, CIO for Wealth, explore the dynamic landscape of investing toward 2026. They delve into the complex effects of policy crosscurrents, contrasting supportive conditions in the U.S. and Asia with challenges in Europe. The duo emphasizes AI's role in boosting productivity and advocates for a smart blend of AI enablers and adopters for portfolio success. They also identify private market opportunities and potential risks from geopolitical tensions and policy missteps.
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INSIGHT

Fed Faces Opposing Labor And Productivity Forces

  • Policy cross-currents mean the Fed faces weak job creation but strong productivity driven by AI.
  • We expect Fed cuts to a neutral ~3.5% and divergent easing across regions, benefiting the US more than Europe.
INSIGHT

AI Will Amplify Regional Growth Gaps

  • Generative AI could boost US total factor productivity materially over 5–10 years.
  • AI capex already explains a large share of recent US growth and will widen regional divergences.
ADVICE

Favor Quality Adopters Over Speculation

  • Prioritize quality companies that can fund AI capex and turn adoption into growth.
  • Blend selective enablers with quality adopters and perform deep research on execution ability.
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