Key facts
- The first half of 2026 saw "Iran" and "AI" as dominant themes in global financial markets.
- Geopolitical events and the artificial intelligence boom significantly influenced investor sentiment.
Global financial markets in the first half of 2026 were significantly shaped by two major themes: tensions involving Iran and a burgeoning boom in artificial intelligence. These factors heavily influenced investor sentiment and dictated market performance across various regions, including Asia. The article highlights these key drivers as central to understanding the financial landscape during this period.