Over the past year, small-cap stocks have been gaining investor attention, outperforming large-cap equities. Recent trends show micro-cap, small-cap, and mid-cap stocks leading returns, aided by lower interest rates and strong earnings growth. Despite uncertainties, this shift suggests potential sustainability for small-cap outperformance through 2026.
International equities were highly successful for investors last year, with strong gains from firms across various regions. Small-cap strategies like the Avantis International Small Cap Equity ETF (AVDS) and the Avantis International Small Cap Value ETF (AVDV) offer potential growth and outperforming returns, suggesting a promising avenue for investors seeking to replicate last year’s successes.
BlackRock has enhanced its liquid alternative platform with the iShares Systematic Alternatives Active ETF (IALT), designed to provide distinctive returns across market cycles. This multi-strategy fund leverages extensive data analytics and human insight while contributing to BlackRock’s significant ETF growth, projected to exceed $4.2 trillion by 2030.
In 2026, U.S. stocks may continue to rise, potentially reaching an S&P 500 target of 7600. While big tech and AI firms are driving growth, a market correction is anticipated in 2027 or 2028. Analysts suggest sectors like healthcare, renewables, and industrials may outperform amid shifting investor sentiment.
Artificial intelligence has evolved into a comprehensive technology ecosystem significantly impacting the global economy. The November 2025 rebalance of the WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Index emphasizes five key pillars shaping AI: compute scale, memory and networking, enterprise adoption, cybersecurity, and strategic investment. AI is now a fundamental operational necessity.
Nvidia reported Q3 revenue of $57 billion, a 62% increase, while Alphabet reached its first $100 billion quarter at $102.3 billion, up 16%. Both companies benefit from AI growth, with Nvidia’s Blackwell chips sold out. Analysts see Alphabet as having greater growth potential compared to Nvidia’s high valuation.
President Trump’s second term highlighted “America first” in economic policy, yet international markets, particularly emerging markets, have outperformed. The Neuberger Berman Emerging Markets Debt Hard Currency ETF (NEMD) demonstrated significant returns influenced by dollar weakness and eased monetary policies, suggesting strong future potential for investments in emerging markets.
Active ETFs are attracting investors due to lower fees, enhancing managers’ chances of outperforming passive benchmarks, as noted in a Morningstar report. With an average expense ratio of 0.63%, they’ve outperformed mutual funds. Additionally, benefits like tax efficiency and lower trading costs further position active ETFs favorably compared to traditional mutual funds.
Palantir Technologies experiences explosive growth, with U.S. commercial revenue doubling year-over-year in Q3. Analysts forecast over 100% revenue growth by 2026, with operating cash flow surpassing $1.6 billion. Despite current valuations, bullish estimates suggest significant upside potential for investors as the company’s financial profile evolves amid an AI revolution.
Emerging market equities have performed well this year, providing potential for growth outside major tech stocks. However, rising geopolitical risks, such as the Ukraine invasion and tariff wars, complicate investments. Active ETFs can navigate these challenges better than passive funds, using fundamental research to identify resilient companies and potentially outperform in volatile conditions.
In 2025, the global pet food market is projected to hit $158.4 billion, driven by a 53% growth since 2020. Companies like Chewy and Freshpet are set to benefit from this trend. Chewy’s revenue is expected to exceed $12 billion, while Freshpet recently surpassed earnings forecasts, signaling potential industry recovery amidst fluctuating pet adoption rates.
ConocoPhillips reported Q3 adjusted earnings of $1.61 per share with revenue of $15.52 billion, despite a 17.2% drop in net income to $1.7 billion due to lower oil prices. Quarterly production increased to 2,399 MBOED, and the dividend was raised by 8%, indicating strong operational performance amid commodity challenges.
Investors are hedging against rising crude prices, with oil call options reaching a record. Palm oil futures surge amid supply tightness in major producers. Renewable energy investments must triple to meet 2050 emission targets. Gold ETFs gain traction as a safe haven, while natural gas futures drop due to Hurricane Milton.
The rise of laddered protection strategies in the US market highlights the popularity of Structured Outcome ETFs, particularly those offering 100% downside protection. This approach enables investors to mitigate risks while achieving growth across different outcome periods, offering continuous protection and daily liquidity. Demand from financial advisors and institutional clients underscores its significance in portfolio management.
