As 2026 begins, the Financial Post has launched its comprehensive Outlook 2026 video series, offering a critical forecast for the Canadian economy, investors, and markets over the next twelve months. The series, published on January 5, 2026, brings together expert analysis on pivotal issues ranging from energy markets and artificial intelligence to housing and international trade.
Energy and Investment Forecasts for the Year Ahead
One of the most striking predictions comes from Eric Nuttall, partner and senior portfolio manager at Ninepoint Partners, who warns Canadians to prepare for "dramatically higher" oil prices in 2026. This forecast signals potential headwinds for consumers but opportunities within the energy sector.
For investors navigating the new year, Brian Belski, chief executive and founder of Humilis Investment Strategies, provides guidance. Following a strong year for markets, Belski analyzes what lies ahead and challenges the common perception of the Federal Reserve's influence on stock performance, suggesting its impact may be overstated.
Housing Market Strains and the AI Frenzy
A significant domestic concern highlighted is the impending wave of mortgage renewals. Mortgage broker Leah Zlatkin of Mortgage Outlet discusses the options facing borrowers and emphasizes that they possess more negotiating power than they might realize when choosing between variable and fixed rates.
Meanwhile, the condo market continues to face severe challenges. Benjamin Tal, deputy chief economist at CIBC, describes the condo segment as being in a "deep recession," though he suggests 2026 could be a transition year from "something bad" to "something better" for the broader housing market and economy.
On the technology front, prominent economist David Rosenberg, founder of Rosenberg Research, delivers a sobering assessment of the artificial intelligence sector. He characterizes the current AI investment craze as a "classic bubble" and advises investors to derisk their portfolios as they move further into 2026.
Political and Trade Challenges on the Horizon
The outlook also delves into political and trade issues. Andrew Scheer, the House Leader of the Opposition, criticizes the Liberal government's pace on trade negotiations. He argues that the current administration has been too slow in advancing crucial trade talks, potentially missing opportunities for the Canadian economy.
This collection of expert insights from the Financial Post's video series paints a complex picture for 2026. Canadians are advised to brace for volatility in energy costs, exercise caution in frothy tech investments, carefully navigate mortgage renewals, and watch for political developments on trade that could impact the nation's economic standing.
