Research spotlight: Affordability

U.S. economic and market outlook 2026: Q2 outlook overview

Our 2026 Outlook — It's an AI World — explores the impact of the AI supercycle on the U.S. economy and markets.

Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton looks back on the key themes that influenced the economy and investment markets in 2025.  Many of these themes will remain influential for 2026.  

Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton and Vanessa Welch, Vice President of Financial Insights discuss the strength of the economy, inflation, the path for interest rates and the outlook for equity markets.  Spoiler: Prepare for a bumpy ride ahead.

Empower Chief Investment Strategist, Marta Norton breaks down key trends influencing the economy and financial markets.

Marta and Vanessa discuss the market’s reaction to the new August 1st tariff deadline. Is it another negotiating tactic? Will it delay a Federal Reserve rate cut?

Q2 proved a strong quarter, but we are leery of underlying trends. Read our Outlook for details and investment implications.

Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton discusses key trends affecting the economy and financial markets.