Investment Insights – July 2026

Oil prices have started to ease after the U.S. and Iran agreed to a framework deal, though prices remain volatile and can still affect inflation, interest rates, and business costs.

 

 

In this video, Del Hart, Mercer New Zealand’s Chief Investment Officer, shares insights from Mercer’s global network of investment experts, covering:

  •   How investment markets performed last quarter.
  •   SpaceX’s initial public offering debut on Nasdaq on June 12, 2026, and why it matters to investors.
  •   What investors should watch for next and which developments could shape the market in the months ahead.

If you are a member of the New Zealand Defence Force KiwiSaver Scheme, we have an additional video about private debt, which was introduced into our KiwiSaver portfolios about 18 months ago. Watch the video here.

This video was filmed in mid-July 2026 and the information discussed is relevant at the time of recording.

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. For more information click here. 

Issued by Mercer (N.Z.) Limited. The information contained in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account the personal objectives, financial situation or needs of individual investors. It is important that you consider these matters, read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and obtain advice from an appropriately qualified financial adviser before making any investment decision. Past performance should not be relied upon as an indicator of future performance. The value of an investment may rise and fall from time to time. The investment performance, earnings or return of capital invested are not guaranteed.

20 July 2026