Discover the current trends in global stock markets and their potential impacts on investment strategies.
Topics covered
Market overview: Current stock market performance
As of November 2025, the global stock market capitalization stands at approximately $100 trillion, reflecting a 5% increase year-to-date. Major indices such as the S&P 500 and the MSCI World Index have shown resilience, with year-to-date returns of 12% and 10%, respectively.
Key drivers: Economic indicators and corporate earnings
The recent upward trend is largely driven by robust economic indicators, including a 3.5% GDP growth rate in the U.S. and stronger-than-expected corporate earnings, which have outperformed analyst expectations by an average of 8%.
Inflation rates have stabilized at 2.1%, contributing to a favorable environment for equities.
Market volatility: Analyzing fluctuations
Despite the overall positive sentiment, market volatility remains a concern. The VIX Index, commonly referred to as the ‘fear gauge’, has averaged around 18 in 2025, indicating moderate market anxiety. This volatility is attributed to geopolitical tensions, particularly in Eastern Europe and trade negotiations in Asia.
Sector performance: Winners and losers
Sector performance has been uneven, with technology and healthcare sectors leading the charge with gains of 15% and 14%, respectively. Conversely, the energy sector has struggled, posting a loss of 3% due to fluctuating oil prices.
Future outlook: Predictions for 2026
Looking ahead, analysts forecast a moderate growth rate for the global stock markets, with expected returns between 5% and 7% in 2026. Key factors influencing this outlook include ongoing economic recovery, corporate earnings growth, and potential interest rate adjustments by central banks.
