The 3 aspects of quality

Watch a quarterly Fund update with April LaRusse: Head of Fixed Income Specialists at Insight Investment.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping markets. While optimism around AI’s potential continues to grow, many investors remain cautious about the disruptions it may bring to the investment universe.

April PMIs (Purchasing Managers’ Indices) point to a meaningful improvement in global manufacturing momentum, with the U.S., Eurozone and Japan all posting stronger-than-expected and firmly expansionary results. The breadth of the rebound suggests improving global demand, supporting a constructive outlook for growth despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Rising margin expectations continue to support equities, underscoring the resilience of corporate profitability in the face of last year’s tariffs and this year’s Middle East war. The U.S. remains especially strong compared to peers, though first quarter earnings will be an important test.