As we look toward 2026, the fusion of technology and strategic investment stands as a pivotal driver of economic growth. Nations that prioritize innovation whether in AI, renewable energy, or digital infrastructure are unlock productivity gains, foster entrepreneurship and attract global capital. From Southeast Asia’s booming digital economy to the rapid industrial upgrades across the GCC, tech-empowered investments are catalyzing higher GDP trajectories. In short, economies that harness technological investment today will lead tomorrow’s growth narrative at the macro level 

INVESTMENT FROM BIG TECH FIRMS  

Big tech plans to spend BIG on AI in 2026. Here’s how much big tech plans to spend on CAPEX in 2026 

• $200 Billion – Amazon $AMZN 

• $180 Billion – Google $GOOGL 

• $125 Billion – Meta Platforms $META 

• $117.5 Billion – Microsoft $MSFT 

• $20 Billion – Tesla $TSLA 

• $13 Billion – Apple $AAPL 

WHAT IS WARSHONOMICS? 

According to Economist magazine, Kevin Warsh’s dovish pivot since Donald Trump won in 2024 is staggering. Over a 20+ year career, he has pretty much always been a hawk: until now.  But on his real hobby horse, unwinding QE, Warsh remains remarkably consistent.  

EMERGING MARKETS ARE OFF TO A FLYING START IN 2026 

The MSCI EM index is up around 11% in USD terms so far this year, versus just around 2% for the MSCI US. In some ways, it feels familiar. This time last year, a falling US dollar helped EM equities strengthen as US stocks lost momentum. After the volatility around April’s “Liberation Day” tariff surprise, EMs went on to outperform the US for the full year. But this time, there’s more going on than just FX. 

With global investors cooling towards dollar assets again and the dollar falling sharply this week, EM momentum is accelerating. Unlike last year, structural improvements and better company fundamentals are also doing the heavy lifting.  

Beneath the surface, some moves have been striking: 

Korea: up around 28% in January, building on last year’s near-100% gain. Large-cap tech stocks tied to the global AI build-out, corporate governance reforms, and government support have attracted foreign inflows. 

Taiwan: another EM tech powerhouse, posting double-digit gains as demand for advanced semiconductors remains strong. 

Brazil: up around 21% this month. Structural reforms, prospects for lower rates, strong investor flows, and a commodities rally have all helped. 

The bottom line? 

Emerging markets are proving again in 2026 that they can be both lucky and good — with dollar weakness acting as a catalyst for improving fundamentals, stronger profits, and compelling regional stories.