The Global Bull Market: Examining the Dramatic Outperformance of Global Stocks vs. the US | Jack & Max

This Monetary Matters episode is brought to you by Fiscal.ai. Sign up for a 2-week free trial and get 15% off any paid tier at: ⁠https://fiscal.ai/mm In this episode, Jack Farley and Max Wiethe break down what really happened in markets in 2025 and what it means for investors heading into 2026. While U.S. equities delivered strong returns and continued to attract record foreign capital, global markets quietly outperformed, with emerging markets, Europe, Japan, and parts of Asia posting significantly higher total returns. The conversation digs into why the “U.S. is the only game in town” narrative broke down, how currency hedging changed foreign capital flows, and why countries like South Korea and China dominated performance. Jack and Max also explore sector-level winners and losers, the ongoing strength of AI and semiconductors, and the rise of speculative excess in areas with little fundamental support. Looking ahead, they debate the biggest risks for 2026, including AI valuations, private credit, labor market weakness, and the growing disconnect between corporate profits and employment. The episode closes with a discussion of tariffs, geopolitics, precious metals, and where real opportunities and hidden risks may lie as the global bull market continues to evolve. Follow Jack Farley on Twitter: https://x.com/JackFarley96 Follow Max Wiethe on Twitter: https://x.com/maxwiethe Follow Monetary Matters on: Apple Podcast https://rb.gy/s5qfyh Spotify https://rb.gy/x56dx5 YouTube https://rb.gy/dpwxez Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:47 US Market Performance in 2025 02:37 Global Market Comparison 04:25 Top Performing Countries and Sectors 05:08 Worst Performing Markets 11:29 Sector Analysis and Trends 16:50 Speculative Stocks and Quantum Computing 19:59 AI Trade and Precious Metals 23:55 Silver Market Dynamics and Supply Constraints 25:02 Biggest Risks to Market Stability in 2026 26:58 Bond Market and Inflationary Concerns 30:28 Private Credit and Market Risks 36:02 Tariffs and Their Impact on the Market 41:29 Geopolitical Special Situations: Venezuela 44:15 Upcoming Interviews and Fiscal AI