Asia Wealth Forum 2026 - Escape velocity?

Global equity markets have pushed higher in recent years, powered by the momentum of artificial intelligence.

Now, we approach a pivotal moment: will AI help economies achieve “escape velocity” and usher in a new era of industrial transformation, stronger growth, and higher corporate profitability? Or will the forces of gravity—rising debt, persistent inflation, political uncertainty, or a loss of AI momentum—slow our ascent or bring us back to earth?

As we chart the course ahead, this outlook helps investors read the signals, position for opportunity, and build resilient portfolios for long-term success—whatever trajectory markets ultimately take.

Event replays

In conversation with Bill Ackman

Bill will share his views on the current global markets, including valuation, risk and volatility, as well as developments such as AI and geopolitical events that affect them. Drawing on his experience managing focused portfolios, he’ll discuss the case for why disciplined active investing fits today’s environment, examine structural market factors, and reflect on lessons learned from both successes and failures. He aims to provide practical advice for navigating market cycles and staying confident when most opinions differ.

CIO outlook: Can markets reach escape velocity?

Global equities hit record highs, driven by a sustained AI bull market and major investment in advanced computing. Many investors now wonder if AI will lead to lasting economic transformation or if risks like debt, inflation, politics, and infrastructure challenges will slow progress. Also, what will drive Asia’s investment landscape ahead? Mark and Min Lan will share their 2026 market outlook across all asset classes, highlight key opportunities for the year ahead, and approaches to maintain resilient portfolios for the longer term.

What really matters for US markets in 2026

Tom presents his perspective on the US market, addressing major hurdles such as high valuations, concentrated markets, and ongoing economic and political uncertainty. He will discuss the Federal Reserve’s policies, the balance between growth and inflation, and how to navigate volatility as an opportunity. Tom will also explore what’s next for AI, cryptocurrencies, and recent emerging trends in tokenization, providing investors with his practical approach on easing short-term concerns, preventing errors, and maintaining focus on long-term goals.

Seizing the moment in global fixed income

Global fixed income is undergoing change due to diverging central bank policies, persistent geopolitical tensions, tight credit spreads, and growing opportunities driven by innovation in public and private credit markets. Our specialists highlight important factors shaping credit markets in 2026, potential areas where risk may be underestimated, and places where investors might be too comfortable. As returns increasingly hinge on careful discipline, selectivity, and openness to volatility, our experts offer practical guidance for managing liquidity amidst regulatory changes and fiscal challenges.

Is China’s renaissance underway?

China’s economy is undergoing a significant transformation, characterized by entrepreneurial innovation and increased deployment of private capital, despite persistent policy ambiguities and geopolitical complexities. This session will analyze the strategic approaches utilized by prominent investors as they respond to changing conditions and how ongoing market development could evolve. The session will also delve into major trends driving this evolution, emerging opportunities, and methods for managing risks in this dynamic landscape.

Leadership at a crossroads: Adapting to a new global regime

Asia is at the forefront of global economic growth but faces challenges from changing trade alliances and rising protectionism. Resilience and adaptability are vital for leaders in these shifting markets. Justin Trudeau, former Canadian Prime Minister (2015-2025), shares insights from his trade negotiation and sustainability efforts, offering practical guidance for Asian businesses and policymakers to navigate disruption, enhance partnerships, and shape the region’s global role. Discover strategies that could play a key role in securing Asia’s future success amid rapid change.

Speakers

Event hosts

Iqbal KHAN

Iqbal Khan

Co-President Global Wealth Management,
President UBS Asia Pacific,
Member of the UBS Group Executive Board since 2019

Download profile(PDF, 81 KB)

YOUNG Jin Yee

Young Jin Yee

Co-Head Global Wealth Management Asia Pacific,
Country Head, UBS Singapore

Download profile(PDF, 87 KB)

Keynote speaker

Justin

The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau

23rd Prime Minister of Canada

Download profile(PDF, 66 KB)

External speakers (in order of appearance)

Bill Ackman

Bill Ackman

CEO

Pershing Square

Download profile(PDF, 61 KB)

Davide Serra

Thomas J. Lee

Chief Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager, Fundstrat Capital

Download profile(PDF, 73 KB)

hamza-lemssouguer

Hamza Lemssouguer

Founder and CIO
Arini

Download profile(PDF, 61 KB)

Armen Panossian

Armen Panossian

Co-Chief Executive Officer
and Head of Performing
Credit, Oaktree

Download profile(PDF, 85 KB)

Davide Serra

Davide Serra

Founder & CEO, Algebris Investments

Download profile(PDF, 61 KB)

louise-gave

Louis Vincent Gave

CEO, Gavekal

Download profile(PDF, 64 KB)

lan-xue

Lan Xue

Partner, Trivest Advisors

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UBS speakers (in order of appearance)

Mark HAEFELE

Mark Haefele

Chief Investment Officer,
UBS Global Wealth Management

Download profile(PDF, 116 KB)

Tan Min Lan

Tan Min Lan

Head Chief Investment Office APAC,
UBS Global Wealth Management

Download profile(PDF, 73 KB)

timothy-tay

Wayne Gordon

Head of CIO Investment Research and Advisory APAC,
UBS Global Wealth Management

Download profile(PDF, 85 KB)

timothy-tay

Timothy Tay

Head CIO APAC Credit,
UBS Global Wealth Management

Download profile(PDF, 63 KB)

Masters of ceremony

Alex Ian Grindley

Alex Ian Grindley

Director, Premium Advisory Specialist
UBS Global Wealth Management 

Download profile(PDF, 86 KB)

Claire Chia

Clare Chia 

Structured Products Specialist
UBS AG

Download profile(PDF, 80 KB)

Year Ahead Report

Mockup of Year Ahead 2026 publication

Download the PDF

Our Year Ahead 2026 outlook, “Escape velocity?”, is designed to help you spot the signals that matter, cut through the noise, and act with confidence.