October 2026 – AI spending doubts shake tech stocks 

The global equity markets were down in October, but the overall return masks considerable differences between regions and sectors. Technology stocks and emerging markets in Asia declined amid doubts about massive spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure as investors increasingly questioned whether such investments can generate significant returns.

As for government bonds, they served as a safe haven, with yields coming down from their September highs. In the United States, the 10-year Treasury yield decreased by 35 basis points in October to end below 5%. Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the price of Brent crude soared 19.3% in U.S. dollars during the month.