Insights 2026 | Investing in Disruptive Innovations

In Insights 2026, we look at how rapid advances in AI, quantum computing, blockchain and defence technology are reshaping global markets. The scale of investment is unprecedented, but so are the risks, with heavy reliance on debt funding, optimistic revenue expectations and growing pressure on power grids and data infrastructure. Our approach focuses on accessing these themes selectively through resilient business models, specialist managers and the parts of the value chain that stand to benefit most from long-term demand. 

Key Takeaways 

• AI investment is accelerating, but much of it is now funded through credit, increasing financial risk for hyperscalers and their suppliers. 

• The surge in data centre development is driving strong demand for energy, digital infrastructure and critical materials. 

• Selective exposure through specialist managers and enabling technologies offers better risk-adjusted potential than high-profile pure-play AI, quantum or crypto stocks. 

• China’s growing focus on applied AI and the global rise in defence spending present long-term opportunities in industrials, automation and defence technology.