Video and Audiocast

31 March 2026

The escalation of the Middle East conflict has shifted market focus from tariffs to geopolitical risk, driving a severe energy supply shock. Despite the short term ceasefire, much uncertainties remain and physical energy market remains disrupted. This may result in renewed inflation, higher rates and FX volatility – posing downside risks to Asia’s growth and signalling a potential end to the low-rate environment.

UOB Global Markets together with Group Research held a webinar on 31 March to share insights on these developments and their implications for markets and in ASEAN.

24 March 2026

In the episode, Dawn Leong from the Chief Investment Office (CIO) sits down with China Economist, Ho Woei Chen to discuss the major themes defining China’s 2026 growth outlook and the policy priorities emerging from this month’s National People’s Congress in Beijing.

(01:02) China and its 2026 GDP growth target
(03:29) Exports as China’s key growth driver
(04:26) Managing excess: Beijing’s response to involution and overcapacity
(05:55) Priority on strengthening domestic demand
(07:26) Measures to stabilise domestic property market and housing demand
(08:02) China’s exposure to external oil prices

9 February 2026

In this episode, Dawn from the Chief Investment Office is joined by Koon How, Head of Markets Strategy from Group Research, to unpack 2026’s early market shocks – from speculative bubbles in metals, the weakening US dollar to policy uncertainty at the Fed.

(01:01) Precious metals and gold volatility
(03:03) Is gold’s pullback a buying opportunity
(05:30) Oil markets & geopolitical risks
(07:37) The US Dollar outlook
(10:14) RMB & Asian FX dynamics
(12:42) The next Fed Chair: Kevin Warsh

07 January 2026

Volatility amidst a divided Fed - In 2026, the global financial landscape is set for profound shifts and growing complexities. Businesses face an environment that blends familiar trends with structural change—marked by persistent uncertainty, uneven growth trajectories, rapid technological transformation, and divergent monetary policies across major economies.

What does this mean for businesses in our region?

Gain actionable insights to navigate volatility and position for success in the year ahead. Watch the video as our Global Economics and Markets Research team share their outlook and discuss emerging opportunities amid headwinds.