Mid-Year Scorecard: Assessing Our Solving For 2026 Calls

At the end of last year, Neuberger's investment leaders laid out five themes to guide investors through 2026. Since then, a regional war in the Middle East and a global oil shock have reshaped the macro landscape — testing some calls while reinforcing others. Policy divergence has exploded wider. The AI buildout has accelerated beyond expectations. And markets are navigating a frothier, more dispersed environment heading into the second half. On this episode of Disruptive Forces, host Anu Rajakumar is joined by Shannon Saccocia, Chief Investment Officer, Wealth, and Jeff Blazek, Co-Chief Investment Officer, Multi-Asset, for a candid mid-year assessment. Together, they discuss: - Why the policy divergence call earned top marks, and how a new Fed chair complicates the outlook - How AI spending surpassed even bullish expectations, with hyperscaler CapEx now exceeding $800 billion - What went wrong with the long-rates thesis and why not all duration is created equal - Where equity broadening is showing up (and where it isn't) - Why being a liquidity provider in private markets continues to be rewarded - How investors should think about dispersion, discipline, and positioning for the second half   This communication is provided for informational and educational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. Information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but there is no representation or warranty as to its accuracy, completeness or reliability. This communication is not directed at any investor or category of investors and should not be regarded as investment advice or a suggestion to engage in or refrain from any investment-related course of action. Neuberger is not providing this material in a fiduciary capacity and has a financial interest in the sale of its products and services. Investment decisions should be made based on an investor's individual objectives and circumstances and in consultation with his or her advisors. All information is current as of the date of this material and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Neuberger products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all client types. This material is not intended as a formal research report and should not be relied upon as a basis for making an investment decision. The firm, its employees and advisory accounts may hold positions of any companies discussed. This material may include estimates, outlooks, projections and other "forward-looking statements." Due to a variety of factors, actual events or market behavior may differ significantly from any views expressed. Investing entails risks, including possible loss of principal. Indexes are unmanaged and are not available for direct investment. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Use of Artificial Intelligence Tools. Neuberger may utilize AI tools in its business operations to improve operational efficiency and for assistance in research and analyzing data among other uses. AI tools are dependent on historical data, consequently, if the content or analyses that AI applications assist Neuberger in producing are or are alleged to be deficient, inaccurate, or biased, a client account may be adversely affected. Additionally, AI tools used by Neuberger may produce inaccurate, misleading or incomplete responses that could lead to errors in Neuberger's and its employees' judgement, decision-making, investment research or other business activities, which could have a negative impact on the performance of a client account. The application of AI in investment processes, research, or analysis is evolving and subject to limitations, including data quality, algorithmic biases, and interpretive errors. AI outputs should not be relied upon as the sole basis for investment decisions. No assurance is given regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of information generated by AI. This material is being issued on a limited basis through various global subsidiaries and affiliates of Neuberger Berman Group LLC. Please visit www.nb.com/disclosure-global-communications for the specific entities and jurisdictional limitations and restrictions. The "Neuberger" name and logo are registered service marks of Neuberger Berman Group LLC. © 2026 Neuberger Berman Group LLC. All rights reserved. M-003555