The top investment opportunities for billionaires in 2026

Billionaires are shifting their investment focus, according to a recent survey by UBS. The bank's annual poll of ultra-wealthy clients highlights a move away from U.S. markets toward opportunities in Western Europe and China.

Over the past few months, reports have explored where billionaires reside and how they spend their wealth. Now, UBS provides insight into their investment strategies. The survey covers planned investments over 12-month and five-year periods, revealing a significant change in regional preferences compared to 2024.

Western Europe emerged as a top target, with 40% of respondents expecting investment opportunities there over the next year, up from 18% last year. China also gained attention, attracting 34% of respondents, a sharp increase from 11% in 2024. Interest in the broader Asia-Pacific region, excluding China, rose by eight points to 33%.

In contrast, North America has lost some appeal. While 80% of respondents favored it in 2024, only 63% expressed confidence in 2025. Concerns driving this shift include tariffs, cited by 66% of respondents as a major market risk, followed by potential geopolitical conflicts (63%), policy uncertainty (59%), and rising inflation (44%).

One European UBS client noted: "North America remains deep and innovative, but geographic concentration creates risk. Diversification provides better opportunities. We focus on real assets for tangible value and protection in volatile or inflationary conditions. Equities may outperform bonds, but our strategy prioritizes stability and resilience over short-term gains."

While short-term outlooks have shifted, the five-year investment perspectives for most regions remain largely consistent with last year.

Regarding asset types, private equity is the most favored for the next 12 months, with 49% planning direct investments. Hedge funds and publicly traded developed market equities both attract 43%, followed by emerging market equities at 37% and private equity funds at 35%. Notably, there is a growing intention to reduce exposure to private equity compared to public stocks.

Public market assets that billionaires are particularly bullish on include ETFs such as iShares MSCI Eurozone (EZU), iShares MSCI China (MCHI), Global X Emerging Markets ex-China (EMM), and Vanguard Tax Managed FTSE Developed Markets (VEA).

Sources:

• Here's where billionaires are seeing the best investment opportunities in 2026

Author: Grace Ellison
Grace Ellison is a journalist focusing on environmental issues and sustainability. She has experience publishing international reports and participating in documentary projects.