Asset Owners Boost U.S. and Private Market Exposure Amid AI Risks
Event summary
- 31% of asset owners increased U.S. market exposure in 2026, reversing a 2025 trend of decreased investment.
- Private market allocations expected to grow from 19% to 23% of AUM over five years.
- AI-related environmental concerns doubled year-over-year to 25% of asset owner considerations.
- Confidence in regulation fell sharply, with only 39% of asset owners holding positive views in 2026.
The big picture
Asset owners are navigating a complex investment landscape shaped by AI advancements, regulatory uncertainty, and evolving ESG priorities. The shift toward U.S. and private market exposure reflects both opportunistic positioning and defensive strategies against systemic risks. With $20 trillion in combined assets under management represented in the survey, these trends have significant implications for global capital allocation patterns.
What we're watching
- AI Integration
- How asset owners will balance AI-driven efficiency gains against governance concerns and market concentration risks.
- Regulatory Confidence
- Whether declining trust in regulation will lead to increased reliance on private data providers for investment decision-making.
- Private Market Growth
- The pace at which private market allocations will grow and whether liquidity risks can be effectively managed.