This edition of Investment Perspectives sees us look ahead to COP30. Just before Eva Cairns, our Head of Responsible Investment, travels out to Brazil, she’s highlighted her hopes for the global climate conference and why it’s so important for investors.

We explore the strengths and limitations of passive funds, as well as how smart beta strategies are expanding the passive toolkit to help advisers meet specific client goals. And Matt Brennan, Head of Asset Allocation, considers whether the position of the US dollar as the global currency of choice can continue and what any change could mean for the country’s equities.

We also feature our Q3 market review and a look ahead to Q4, as well as timely articles on inheritance tax, AI, and a country focus on Germany from this month’s third-party contributors.

A wooden signpost displaying directions for North, South, East, and West against a clear blue sky

Global investment market outlook: Q4 2025 trends & insights

Explore Q4 2025 global market trends, from equities and bonds to emerging markets. Learn what’s driving performance and where opportunities...

Aerial view of a winding river surrounded by dense, vibrant green rainforest and scattered clouds, showcasing a lush, natural landscape

COP30 – what we’ll be looking out for

COP30 marks a decade since the Paris Agreement. Key themes: stronger climate targets, scaling finance, protecting forests, carbon pricing, and...

A person analysing financial data on a smartphone, with a laptop displaying similar charts and spreadsheets in the background

Beyond the benchmark: unpacking smart beta strategies

Discover how smart beta strategies blend passive and active investing to optimise portfolios. Learn the benefits, limitations, and key approaches...

A close-up view of scattered one-dollar bills, showcasing intricate details of the banknotes and their green and black print

Another day, another dollar: US dollar dominance?

The US dollar remains dominant as the primary global reserve and trade currency, underpinning financial stability and US Treasury demand....

A sleek, futuristic robot with a white body and illuminated accents interacts with a holographic display, set against a dark background

Physical AI is about to reshape our world

Explore the impact of physical AI on autonomous vehicles, smart factories and global markets, and why it’s a cornerstone of...

A group of three women gathered, one holding a baby, against a vibrant red wall, conveying warmth and connection

Inheritance tax is changing: Are you and your clients ready?

Major IHT reforms will affect pensions, agricultural property and business relief. Learn what’s changing and how to prepare your clients.

Contributors

Eva Cairns
Head of Responsible Investments, Scottish Widows
Read bio
Ian Kloss
Head of Nationals – Networks and International Distribution, RBC Brewin Dolphin
Read bio
Matt Brennan
Head of Asset Allocation & Research, Scottish Widows
Read bio
Matthew Cioppa
CFA Vice President Portfolio Manager/ Research Analyst, Franklin Equity Group
Read bio
Robert Schramm-Fuchs
Portfolio Manager, Janus Henderson Investors
Read bio
Scottish Widows
Read bio