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Global Asset Allocation Viewpoints

A view from Canada

March 2026

Outlook
  • Ongoing geopolitical conflict and a more pronounced energy supply shock leading to higher inflation and rates could challenge risk assets, with valuations remaining somewhat elevated.
  • While recent developments in the Middle East pose risks to inflation and growth, earnings momentum and economic growth still remain favorable, underpinned by accommodative fiscal policies across many regions. 
  • U.S. economic growth continues to show resilience driven by AI-driven capex spending, consumer spending and supportive fiscal policy. Although, weakness in the labor market warrants monitoring.
  • Markets outside the U.S. continue to benefit from firmer domestic demand and policy, particularly in Europe and Japan. 
  • Canadian macro backdrop remains on positive trajectory backed by fiscal stimulus and strengthening natural resources demand. Earnings further buoyed by improving energy production efficiency. 
  • Key risks to global markets include escalating geopolitical tensions, a resurgence in inflation, reliance on AI-driven growth,
    further deterioration in labor markets, and a widening of liquidity concerns within private credit..

T. Rowe Price’s latest perspectives on global and Canadian asset allocation against a backdrop of persistent geopolitical tensions and energy market shocks. While global risk assets are challenged by inflation, higher rates, and elevated valuations, economic growth and earnings momentum remain resilient, especially in the U.S., driven by AI-related capital spending and fiscal support. Outside the U.S., Europe and Japan benefit from solid domestic demand and supportive policies, while Canada’s outlook is bolstered by fiscal stimulus and robust demand for natural resources.

Key investment themes include a shift in market preference toward “asset-heavy” sectors like energy and materials, driven by AI infrastructure buildout and rising energy prices. The team remains neutral on equities but has increased allocations to small-caps and maintains a preference for high-yield bonds and inflation-sensitive assets like short-term TIPS. Risks include further geopolitical escalation, inflation surprises, and liquidity concerns in private credit. Regionally, Canadian equities are supported by strong fundamentals but face valuation and inflation risks. Overall, the report emphasizes a balanced approach, maintaining hedges against inflation and seeking opportunities amid ongoing volatility.


 

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Navy background with four boxes at the upper right-hand corner A view from Canada

Global Asset Allocation Viewpoints

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This material is being furnished for general informational and/or marketing purposes only. The material does not constitute or undertake to give advice of any nature, including fiduciary investment advice, nor is it intended to serve as the primary basis for an investment decision. Prospective investors are recommended to seek independent legal, financial and tax advice before making any investment decision. T. Rowe Price group of companies including T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and/or its affiliates receive revenue from T. Rowe Price investment products and services. Past performance is no guarantee or a reliable indicator of future results. The value of an investment and any income from it can go down as well as up. Investors may get back less than the amount invested.

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Information and opinions presented have been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources’ accuracy or completeness. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will come to pass. The views contained herein are as of the date noted on the material and are subject to change without notice; these views may differ from those of other T. Rowe Price group companies and/or associates. Under no circumstances should the material, in whole or in part, be copied or redistributed without consent from T. Rowe Price.

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Canada - Issued in Canada by T. Rowe Price (Canada), Inc. T. Rowe Price (Canada), Inc.’s investment management services are only available to non-individual Accredited Investors and non-individual Permitted Clients as defined under National Instrument 45-106 and National Instrument 31-103, respectively. T. Rowe Price (Canada), Inc. enters into written delegation agreements with affiliates to provide investment management services.

Residents of Quebec may request a French translation of this document. Please contact CanadaTranslationRequests@troweprice.com. Les résidents du Québec peuvent demander une traduction française de ce document. S'il vous plaît contactez CanadaTranslationRequests@troweprice.com.

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