Market Digest: August 2026

This latest Market Digest, produced by Hymans Robertson Investment Services, takes a look at how global markets performed in August 2026, explores the current outlook for bond markets, and reviews the 12 months to 30 June 2026.

In this edition, you'll find:

• August market highlights – Global equities rose during August, driven largely by strong earnings and continued momentum in AI-related stocks, even as the UK market lagged due to its lower exposure to technology.

• The bond market spotlight – Gilt yields have been a key talking point, having climbed steadily over recent months to levels not seen in years. This digest breaks down the short-term and structural factors behind rising yields, including government borrowing levels, shifting demand from traditional bond buyers, and global developments such as changing policy in Japan.

• Chart of the month – A closer look at how 10-year gilt yields have moved since the financial crisis, and what this means for portfolios going forward.

• A 12-month market review – A broader look back at the year to 30 June 2026, covering how equity and bond markets navigated periods of geopolitical uncertainty, central bank policy changes, and shifting investor sentiment.

The August 2026 market digest also considers the evolving role bonds play in a diversified portfolio, and why, despite recent volatility, they continue to offer an important balance of risk and return.

Click here to download the full Market Digest

This document has been produced by Hymans Robertson Investment Services LLP (HRIS) for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice. Please read the full risk warnings included in their document. If you have any questions about how these market movements may affect your investments, please get in touch with your Dentons Wealth adviser.