Valuable investing: balance of financial and social returns

Despite doubts about AI and concerns about possible escalation in the Middle East, February 2026 was another good month for equity investors. 

January saw stellar performances on stock markets in Asia and emerging markets. US equities lagged behind, and the dollar fell in value. European capital market interest rates also fell slightly. 

Financial market results were mixed in December. In contrast, sentiment in Europe was clearly positive, while capital market interest rates rose there.