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Quarterly Market Perspective:
First Quarter 2026

Key Takeaways

  • The stock market gains. For the third straight year, U.S. stocks posted strong double-digit returns while international stocks delivered their best gains in over 15 years, rising 33%.*
  • Continued positive economic growth. We remain in expansion, due in part to healthy consumer spending and higher corporate earnings.
  • Spending on AI technologies. Historically, overinvestment in new technologies has led to market downturns, but we may not be nearing that point. Reducing stock exposure now could mean missing out on meaningful growth potential.
  • The outlook for bonds. Beyond playing a role as shock absorbers in diversified portfolios, higher interest rates have helped boost bond returns.

Download the Quarterly Market Perspective slides to explore themes discussed in the video.

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*Sources: Dow Jones US Total Stock Market Index, MSCI AW ex-US Index (Net MA Tax) 12/31/24-12/31/25.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated, based on the information available at that time, and may change based on market or other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments or its affiliates. Fidelity does not assume any duty to update any of the information.

Keep in mind that investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money.

Generally, among asset classes stocks are more volatile than bonds or short-term instruments and can decline significantly in response to adverse issuer, political, regulatory, market, or economic developments. Although the bond market is also volatile, lower-quality debt securities including leveraged loans generally offer higher yields compared to investment grade securities, but also involve greater risk of default or price changes. Foreign markets can be more volatile than U.S. markets due to increased risks of adverse issuer, political, market or economic developments, all of which are magnified in emerging markets.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss.

This presentation does not constitute an offer or solicitation to any person in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful. Nothing contained herein constitutes investment, legal, tax or other advice nor is it to be relied on in making an investment or other decision. No assumptions should be made regarding the manner in which a client’s account should or would be handled, as appropriate investment strategies will depend upon each client’s investment objectives. None of the information contained herein takes into account the particular investment objectives, restrictions, tax or financial situation, or other needs of any specific client. Certain strategies discussed herein give rise to substantial risks and are not suitable for all investors. The information contained in this material is only as current as the date indicated, and may be superseded by subsequent market events or for other reasons. The information provided by third parties has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but Strategic Advisers LLC. makes no representation as to its accuracy or completeness. Statements concerning financial market trends are based on current market conditions, which will fluctuate. This material may not be reproduced or redistributed without the express written permission of Strategic Advisers LLC. This video provides information specific to Personalized Portfolios. Advisory services provided for a fee through Strategic Advisers LLC (Strategic Advisers), a registered investment adviser and a Fidelity Investments company. Brokerage services provided by Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC (FBS), and custodial and related services provided by National Financial Services LLC (NFS), each a member NYSE and SIPC. Strategic Advisers, FBS, and NFS are Fidelity Investments companies.

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