BlackRock’s 2026 Outlook Bets on U.S. Stocks as AI and Stablecoins Recast Markets

Overview

• BlackRock says it remains pro‑risk and overweight U.S. equities over the next six to 12 months, calling AI the main driver of stock gains.
• The firm is underweight long‑duration Treasuries, arguing elevated deficits and ongoing investment cycles reduce their defensive appeal.
• Artificial intelligence is labeled the dominant long‑term mega force reshaping growth, margins, and capital allocation across sectors.
• Stablecoins are described as a bridge to digital liquidity with potential roles in cross‑border payments and emerging‑market use, with DeFiLlama data cited at about $307 billion in market value.
• The report asserts there is no neutral stance, favoring active, thematic strategies while flagging constraints such as energy needs for AI, geopolitical and defense fragmentation, and an uneven phase for private credit, with risk appetite supported by expected Fed rate cuts.