Investment Insights - February 2026

Last year saw significant geopolitical shifts, notably the US adopting unprecedented trade policies. Global markets digested these changes amid mild economic growth, strong AI-driven efficiency gains, persistent inflation challenges, and solid gains in US tech stocks and emerging markets. Meanwhile, New Zealand and Australian shares saw more modest gains.

In this video, David Scobie, Mercer New Zealand’s Senior Investment Consultant, shares insights from Mercer’s global network of investment experts, covering:

•  How different asset classes performed in 2025.
• The impact of recent asset performance on member returns.
• Trends Mercer is monitoring and how they may influence investment opportunities in 2026.

New Zealand Defence Force Savings Schemes offer you the choice of seven different investment options. If you’re not sure if your investment option is right for you, take our Fund Selector and/or call NZDF’s appointed financial advisers, Become Wealth, on 0508 BECOME (0508 232 663) or email them at hello@become.nz.

Mercer’s team of experts based in over 40 countries around the globe, including New Zealand, monitor global and local events and bring you the latest updates. We also produce an investment report each month covering the NZDF Savings Schemes, which includes returns for each of the seven funds in each scheme.

_{This information has been prepared by Mercer (N.Z.) Limited. The information contained in this article is intended for general guidance only. It does not take into account your particular financial situation or goals. Before making any investment decision, you should refer to the Product Disclosure Statement or consult an appropriately qualified financial adviser}