Investor Insights

While the Middle East commands headlines, investors have largely forgotten the factors determining their returns prior to the outbreak of hostilities. But when the conflict ends, investors will return to considering those factors, including artificial intelligence (AI), U. S. debt, and the possibility of stagflation. Prior to the conflict, investors were debating AI’s immediate and long-term impact.

I joined Paul Turton on ABC Newcastle Mornings to discuss how Middle East tensions and fuel shortages could impact markets, noting that while a large share of oil supply is at risk, prices have been more contained than in past crises.

I joined Jess Maguire on ABC Statewide Drive last week to unpack what a recession really means and whether Australia is already experiencing one on a per-capita basis.

  I joined Juliette Saly on Ausbiz to discuss how markets could respond when the war ends, noting a short conflict may trigger a relief rally while a prolonged one could see markets fall further before recovering. I also highlighted that beyond near-term volatility, investors should be paying closer attention to the growing risks around the U. S.

I joined Philip Clark on ABC Nightlife to discuss the shift toward a more volatile market environment in 2026. With inflation likely rising again, growth slowing and oil prices climbing, the key conditions that supported recent equity gains are fading. We also explored potential war scenarios involving Iran and how they could impact markets, inflation and interest rates.

The financial world has woken up to a “flash-freeze”. The news that an Iranian drone reportedly struck a U. S. -linked commercial oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has done more than just spike the price of oil; it’s arguably shattered the fragile market equilibrium we’ve seen since the start of the year.

I joined ABC News to discuss the market reaction to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Surging oil prices and concerns about supply disruptions have rattled global markets, prompting investors to reassess risks and reduce exposure to equities. Watch here: ABC The Business.

This morning on ABC Newcastle Mornings with Paul Turton, I discussed how markets respond to geopolitical shocks and why investors should keep their focus on underlying fundamentals. While conflicts can cause short-term volatility, history shows markets often recover as investors anticipate recovery spending and economic growth.

Yesterday afternoon I joined Jess Maguire on ABC Statewide Drive to discuss how the conflict in the Middle East is affecting global markets. While headlines have focused on oil and petrol prices, we also discussed the potential impact on industries such as airlines, tourism and energy-intensive manufacturing.

  Today on Ausbiz with Juliette Saly, I discussed the growing hype around humanoid robots. While many companies promise household robots within a decade, leading roboticist Rodney Brooks believes major technical hurdles remain before they can perform meaningful work in homes or industry.

For years, investors believed and followed a “lower for longer” mantra that pushed capital further out along the risk spectrum. It has flowed into private equity, cryptocurrencies, and high-flying tech. However, as the tide of cheap liquidity recedes, we’re seeing a typical correction as investors retreat from riskier assets.

Many believe the era of easy investing is over and after several strong years in equity markets, opportunities are harder to find and valuations are less forgiving. So, with traditional 60/40 portfolios under pressure, investors are looking for diversification, income and resilience.