Recent geopolitical tensions have highlighted the lack of investment in industries now deemed strategic, such as energy infrastructure, semiconductor manufacturing, defence, digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). At the same time, technological breakthroughs are opening opportunities for a new wave of investment.

Catalysing competitiveness

Gold prices posted a gain of nearly 7% in the first week of August – the biggest weekly rise since January, as expectations of US rate hikes receded and inflation worries linked to the US-Iran peace deal eased.

Central banks stay positive on gold despite volatility

International premium-class travel (business and first class) climbed 4.5% year on year to 109.7 million passengers in 2025, accounting for 5.5% of all international travellers, according to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) newly released World Air Transport Statistics (WATS).

Global premium air travel extends recovery in 2025

Artificial intelligence has become inseparable from global trade, according to Allianz Research. AI growth depends on globalised supply chains for chips, computing infrastructure and digital services, while trade itself is increasingly shaped by who controls AI infrastructure and data flows.

AI is rewiring global trade but concentrating power in fewer hands

Singapore is the most expensive city in the world, followed by Zurich and Monaco, according to Julius Baer’s “Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026”, which was published on July 7. Monaco, a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, broke into the top three for the first time, nudging Hong Kong into fourth place. Bangkok made its way into the top 10 list for the first time in at least the last five years, according to the report.

Singapore is world’s most expensive city, Bangkok ranked 10th

Global IPO proceeds tripled to US$186.8 billion in the first half of 2026 (1H2026) despite a 12% decline in listing volumes as investors concentrated capital behind larger transactions, artificial intelligence (AI)-related opportunities and companies with strong growth narratives.