As 2026 approaches, Canadian investors and homeowners are facing a complex financial landscape marked by potential volatility in artificial intelligence stocks, shifting energy markets, and a wave of mortgage renewals. Financial Post's latest video analysis brings together leading experts to dissect the risks and opportunities for the coming year.
Energy and Markets: A Tale of Two Forecasts
One of the most striking predictions for 2026 comes from Eric Nuttall, partner and senior portfolio manager at Ninepoint Partners. He warns investors to prepare for "dramatically higher" oil prices in the new year. This outlook suggests significant implications for both the energy sector and the broader Canadian economy, which is heavily tied to resource prices.
On the equity front, Brian Belski, chief executive and founder of Humilis Investment Strategies, provides perspective following a strong year for investors. He offers a nuanced view on market influences, arguing that the U.S. Federal Reserve may have less direct impact on stock performance than commonly believed. This insight is crucial for investors crafting their 2026 portfolio strategy.
The Looming AI Investment Bubble
A central theme in the 2026 forecast is the sustainability of the artificial intelligence investment boom. Prominent economist David Rosenberg, founder of Rosenberg Research, delivers a stark warning. He characterizes the current market enthusiasm for AI stocks as a "classic bubble" that may be nearing a point of collapse.
Rosenberg advises investors to proactively "derisk" their portfolios heading into the new year to shield themselves from potential fallout when the bubble bursts. This cautionary stance highlights the need for careful stock selection and diversification beyond the high-flying tech sector.
Mortgage Renewals: Navigating the New Rate Reality
For Canadian households, a major practical concern for 2026 is the ongoing wave of mortgage renewals. Leah Zlatkin, a mortgage broker at Mortgage Outlet, addresses the critical choices facing borrowers. She discusses the strategic decision between variable and fixed-rate mortgages in the current interest rate environment.
Importantly, Zlatkin emphasizes that mortgage borrowers possess more negotiating power than they often realize. This insight empowers homeowners to shop around and secure the best possible terms as their renewal dates arrive, a key piece of personal financial planning for the year ahead.
The collective analysis from these experts paints a picture of a pivotal year. Investors are urged to look beyond the AI hype, prepare for energy market shifts, and reassess their exposure. Meanwhile, homeowners must strategically navigate the renewal process. The overarching message for 2026 is one of cautious preparation and strategic risk management across all facets of personal and investment finance.
