Absolute return bond strategies aim to deliver steadier outcomes by prioritising capital preservation and actively managing volatility. This approach offers investors a potentially more resilient way to navigate uncertain markets, writes Shaun Casey, senior portfolio manager at Insight Investment.

Equity volatility is rising, but all is not what it seems. The technology sector is weighing on the S&P 500 while value and cyclical stocks lead. A market rotation is underway as many investors begin to favor companies beyond tech.

2025 was a strong year for infrastructure and we expect momentum to continue in 2026. In an environment marked by heightened geopolitical risk, elevated inflation, and narrow equity leadership, we see global infrastructure as an effective hedge against these challenges. Infrastructure can also provide a differentiated way to participate in growth opportunities. We believe the asset class is well-positioned to benefit from durable long-term tailwinds like continued government spending and AI-driven demand for data centers and power.

Checkpoints is a comprehensive monthly chartbook highlighting major top-of-mind themes that could shape financial markets in the near term. In addition to the broader macroeconomic discussion, Checkpoints delivers detailed views on major asset classes, including global equities, fixed income and real assets.