2026 Investment Layout: Gold Price Trends Lead New Opportunities in Global Asset Allocation

Entering 2026, the investment market is in a rare state of clarity. The US fiscal situation is gradually improving, and policy expectations are clear, laying the foundation for more proactive risk appetite strategies. In this environment, the trends in gold prices, cryptocurrencies, AI, and other assets are subject to reevaluation, and investors need to precisely grasp the opportunities for asset allocation.

According to VanEck’s Q1 global market outlook, after adjustments at the end of 2025, multiple investment sectors are regaining attractiveness. Among them, the performance and future trend of gold prices have become one of the key factors in determining the global asset allocation direction.

Gold Prices Face Adjustment, Central Bank Demand Supports Long-Term Bullish Outlook

Gold is experiencing a resurgence of global monetary assets. Driven by continuous central bank accumulation and the de-dollarization of the global economy, gold prices are showing a strong structural upward trend.

From a technical perspective, although gold prices have already broken through historical highs, VanEck believes that current price retracements present excellent buying opportunities. This view is not based on short-term technicals but on gold’s long-term structural advantage as a global monetary asset. Central bank demand for gold remains robust, providing stable support for gold prices.

According to Bloomberg data (as of December 31, 2025), while gold prices are above key support levels, the purchase and investment demand from central banks remain resilient, indicating that market recognition of gold has not weakened due to short-term price adjustments.

Cryptocurrencies and AI Assets: Seeking Allocation Opportunities Amid Short-Term Volatility

At the end of 2025, stocks related to AI experienced significant price adjustments. This reset of valuations has made AI and related themes more attractive for medium- and long-term investors. Notably, despite the pullback in stock prices, the potential demand for computing, tokenization, and productivity enhancement remains strong, supporting the long-term investment logic in AI.

In the cryptocurrency space, the situation is relatively complex. Bitcoin’s traditional four-year cycle deviated in 2025, leading to mixed short-term signals. This divergence has prompted investors to adopt a cautious stance over the next 3 to 6 months. However, VanEck’s internal views are not unified—analysts Matthew Sigel and David Schassler hold relatively positive attitudes toward recent cycles, reflecting ongoing debate about the short-term outlook of the crypto market.

Nuclear energy stocks also experienced a notable correction in Q4. Since nuclear energy is closely linked to AI-driven electricity demand, this adjustment has improved the risk-reward profile for long-term investors.

Market Environment in 2026 Becomes Clear: Policy Stability Enhances Risk Appetite

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent describes the current interest rate level as “normal,” which is quite meaningful. It is unlikely that there will be aggressive or disruptive short-term rate cuts in 2026; markets should expect policy stability and moderate adjustments, with significant shocks diminishing.

The improvement in the US fiscal situation is a key development. Although the deficit remains high, its proportion of GDP has significantly decreased from the pandemic-era record highs. This fiscal stability helps anchor long-term interest rates and reduces tail risks. This is also a major reason why market outlooks are becoming clearer—uncertainties in fiscal and monetary policies have been greatly reduced, providing investors with a clearer decision-making framework.

BDCs and Emerging Markets: Diversified Investment Portfolio Options

Business Development Companies (BDCs) faced challenges in 2025, but this adjustment has created allocation opportunities. With yields still attractive and credit risks largely priced in, BDCs are now more reasonably valued relative to their long-term profitability. Managers like Ares and others are also showing similar valuation recoveries.

Beyond the US market, India remains a highly promising long-term investment target, benefiting from structural reforms and sustained economic growth momentum. Investors may consider increasing emerging market exposure within their global asset allocation.

Investment Advice: Gold Price Trends Are a Key Reference

Overall, the main investment themes for 2026 should revolve around policy clarity and gold price trends. Gold’s role as a global monetary asset continues to strengthen, and its price movements will reflect the decentralization of the global economy. The current price adjustments present opportunities for strategic positioning.

Meanwhile, investors should stay attentive to high-growth sectors like cryptocurrencies and AI, but also be cautious of short-term volatility risks. In a context of clear policy environments, strong gold demand, and multi-asset allocation opportunities, selecting assets with structural advantages will be key to success in 2026.