There is strong potential for a slowdown in global growth in early 2025. But central banks are poised to respond with rapid rate cuts, paving the way for a fast recovery. We expect a shift from services to manufacturing—the result of a global push towards renewable energy and the rise of AI. These factors are, in part, fueling infrastructure spending.
The US economy is set for another year of growth, bolstered by investments in AI. Fiscal policies and coordinated monetary easing support this outlook. Job creation will likely slow as companies have front-loaded hiring, but unemployment is expected to remain low. Improving productivity should also provide another boost to growth.
As we emerge from a period dominated by U.S. tech, international equities may offer breadth and room for growth. Diversifying into areas that have valuation support and robust fundamentals, such as value and small cap stocks, seems prudent. Japan, Korea, and the United Kingdom could also benefit from structural changes.
Themes driving the bulk of U.S. equity returns in 2024 may unwind in 2025. Bottom line: We see a broadening opportunity set in equity markets. Small caps should benefit from further interest rate cuts and any signs of an improving economy. Underappreciated sectors like energy, financials, and industrials could also offer opportunities, signaling a stock-pickers' market.
Bond yields have been on a roller coaster ride as markets have tried to anticipate shifts in central bank policies. Given current market pricing, this implies upside risk to yields. Where to focus: Cash yields remain attractive, but longer duration fixed income is vulnerable. We believe high-yield bonds and bank loans are best positioned for yield, while emerging market bonds also present favorable income prospects.
Evolving economic and market conditions could expand opportunities for private market investors. Private credit will cater to complex financing needs, while potential IPOs and increased M&A activity, driven by lower interest rates, may offer liquidity avenues for private equity investors.
A wave of innovation is transforming the health care sector’s prospects. And not just in GLP-1s. Technological developments are leading breakthroughs in AI-led cancer screening and robotic surgery. Therapeutic breakthroughs could have major impacts. A return to lower rates and inventory normalization may also bring a timely boost for the sector.
The launch of ChatGPT ignited a surge in AI stocks. While the initial rapid growth phase may be over, AI remains a powerful productivity enhancer for the global economy. What does that mean for investors? Transitioning to AI’s next investment phase. Innovative “linchpin” companies—with strong fundamentals—offer strongest growth prospects, in our view.
Get the T. Rowe Price Multi-Asset Division’s expert views on the relative attractiveness of asset classes and subclasses over the next six to 18 months.
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