Standard Chartered Bank recommends investors maintain diversified portfolios in the second half of 2026. This advice comes as Ghana's macroeconomic conditions show improvement, creating a more favorable investment climate. The bank launched its H2 2026 Global Market Outlook in Accra to provide clients with insights into global investment trends.
The report suggests that risky assets will likely continue to receive support from a global economy headed for a "soft landing." However, investors must still manage challenges such as unpredictable energy prices and shifts in central bank policies. Equity supply pressures and changing investor sentiment are also significant factors to consider.
For investors in Ghana, Standard Chartered highlights several positive developments. These include easing inflationary pressures and stronger external financial buffers. Renewed confidence in the Ghana cedi (GHS) also contributes to a more constructive investment background. These domestic improvements align with Ghana's broader economic recovery efforts following a period of high inflation and currency instability.
Dr. Setor Quashigah, Head of Affluent and Wealth Management at Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC, spoke on the matter. "The second half of 2026 presents both opportunity and complexity," Dr. Quashigah stated. She added, "While improving domestic conditions are encouraging, global markets remain dynamic and require a disciplined, long-term approach."
The bank warns that global volatility, oil price fluctuations, and evolving interest rate expectations remain key risks. These factors underscore the critical need for diversified portfolios across different geographic regions, currencies, and asset classes. This strategy helps mitigate risks associated with specific market downturns.
Standard Chartered maintains a positive outlook on global equities. It shows a preference for markets in the United States and Asia, excluding Japan. The bank also sees selective opportunities within fixed income and alternative assets. Its Chief Investment Office team predicts further gains in major asset classes.
The team forecasts a mid-2027 target of 7,950 for the US S&P 500 index. They also project gold to reach $5,100, affirming equities as a growth driver. Gold is seen as a strategic hedge against market uncertainties. Global equities have already risen more than 12% year-to-date, driven by strong corporate earnings. Optimism surrounding artificial intelligence has also contributed to this growth.
Despite geopolitical tensions, rising oil prices, and elevated bond yields, this positive momentum is expected to persist. However, the bank advises investors to remain flexible. Markets will respond to four main variables: energy prices, equity supply, investor positioning, and central bank policy decisions. Ghana's macroeconomic stability has improved after debt restructuring and currency volatility.
Stronger fiscal discipline, enhanced external reserves, and robust export earnings, especially from gold, are boosting investor confidence. Nevertheless, Ghanaian investors remain exposed to global developments. These include shifts in energy prices, the strength of the US dollar, and interest rate expectations in major economies. Capital flows into emerging markets also influence local conditions, making active portfolio management essential.