Janus Henderson Identifies Global Shifts, AI Innovation, and Rising Capital Costs as Key Themes for 2026 Investing
DUBAI, UAE: In a comprehensive analysis of global macro investment themes for 2026, Ali Dibadj, CEO of Janus Henderson Investors, asserts that the macroeconomic forces monitored by the global active asset manager remain robust despite rapid changes in the economic and technological landscape. He emphasizes that these forces are evolving in their market influence, creating new risks and opportunities for investors while providing a solid framework for portfolio strategies.
Geopolitical Risk and Regionalization
Dibadj highlights the significant impacts of recent election cycles that have ushered in new leadership across various nations. He points to tariffs as an early indicator of these changes and predicts that 2026 will continue to see governments implementing economic policies aimed at bolstering national interests. This shift is expected to affect multiple market sectors, particularly trade, technology, and energy. Dibadj warns that navigating this evolving investment environment will require careful and expert analysis.
He notes, “Companies in various categories – from chips to rare earths, social media to defence – are now viewed from a national security perspective. This means separating future winners from losers in investment requires more than traditional financial analysis. Politics has become another investment lever to pull.”
AI-Driven Innovation
Dibadj also discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on investment opportunities. He observes that societal shifts in how people live and work are accelerating the adoption of digital technologies, particularly among younger generations. AI is not just confined to tech companies; it represents a broader megatrend influencing all sectors of the economy. Projections indicate that global spending on AI will reach approximately $375 billion in 2025 and $500 billion by 2026.
The integration of AI is reshaping business operations and service delivery, with productivity gains poised to drive economic growth across various industries. Healthcare is identified as a sector experiencing significant innovation due to AI advancements.
Dibadj stresses the importance of active engagement with companies to assess the financial implications of AI. He states, “From an investment perspective, AI requires a thoughtful approach. Considerations include the environmental impact associated with increased power demand and the societal implications of potential job displacement.”
Fixed Income and Private Credit
As interest rates trend downward from their peak levels, Dibadj notes that the cost of capital is likely to remain elevated compared to the previous decade. This shift is expected to have a profound effect on investment markets. He explains that access to capital is no longer inexpensive, leading lenders to be more selective. This dynamic creates a wider gap between investment winners and losers, favoring active management strategies. Detailed analysis can reveal early indicators of a company’s potential success or failure, aiding in portfolio positioning.
The sustained high cost of capital also enhances the attractiveness of fixed income investments. Dibadj asserts, “Yield is back.” For 2026, investors can explore a variety of fixed income opportunities, either through a multi-sector approach or by engaging specialists in areas such as securitized, short-duration, or emerging market debt.
He adds that there are substantial opportunities in private credit strategies, particularly in asset-backed finance, which benefits from tangible collateral, as well as in emerging market private credit.
Client-Centric Asset Management: Evolving to Meet Investor Needs
In light of the shifting investment landscape, Dibadj emphasizes the necessity of client-centric solutions. He states, “To be successful in meeting the needs of clients in 2026 and beyond, it is important to be one step ahead. We believe in transformation; close to 15% of our offering is new and growing. We continue to reshape our technology and actively strengthen our teams by promoting and incentivizing excellence.”
About Janus Henderson
Janus Henderson Group is a prominent global active asset manager committed to assisting clients in defining and achieving superior financial outcomes through differentiated insights, disciplined investments, and exemplary service. As of September 30, 2025, Janus Henderson managed approximately $484 billion in assets, employed over 2,000 individuals, and maintained offices in 25 cities worldwide. The firm aims to empower millions globally to invest in a brighter future. Headquartered in London, Janus Henderson is publicly traded on the NYSE.
As reported by www.zawya.com.
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Published on 2026-01-07 12:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk