As investors head toward 2026, the market backdrop is shifting from easy gains to a tougher, more selective environment. Slowing growth, persistent inflation, higher-for-longer rates, and trade tensions are now structural features—not temporary risks. In this interview on MoneyTalk, Phil walks through how he’s thinking about markets in a “stagflation-light” world, what characteristics matter most in stocks, how to approach AI, and why balance sheets and cash flow matter more than ever.
Hunting for reliable returns in 2026
Timeline (Hunting for Reliable Returns):
0:00 – Show introduction and 2026 market setup
0:59 – Markets “waking up” after years of easy money
1:57 – Stagflation-light and mild recession outlook
2:56 – What makes companies recession-resistant
3:39 – AI: hype vs. real productivity gains
4:43 – “Picks and shovels” approach to AI investing
5:06 – Biggest investor mistakes heading into 2026
5:25 – Debt, tariffs, and higher-for-longer rates
6:00 – Key traits: balance sheets, pricing power, cash flow
Three key stocks to watch in the year ahead
Phil Davis reveals his 2026 Trade of the Year
