Quarterly Edge: Q1, 2026 Investment Outlook: Are We in a Market Bubble?

Want to learn more about how these market themes may fit into a broader financial strategy? www.bluechippartners.com As Blue Chip Partners kicks off the first quarter of 2026, CIO Daniel Dusina, CFA, and Managing Partner Dan Seder, CFA, CMT, CFP® sit down to discuss the economic landscape, equity market concerns, and the evolving role of bonds in diversified portfolios. Despite lingering data challenges from late 2025, the conversation highlights surprisingly resilient U.S. economic growth, the continued impact of AI investment, and how labor and inflation remain central to Federal Reserve decision-making. The discussion also tackles one of the most common investor questions today: are we in a stock market bubble? By examining valuations through a growth-adjusted lens, the team explains why elevated prices alone don’t tell the full story. They also explore why small-cap and international equities are quietly gaining momentum for the first time in nearly two decades, and why bonds may continue to serve as an important stabilizer as interest rates trend lower. “For the first time since 2006, small-cap and international equities are quietly outperforming large-cap U.S. stocks.” – Daniel Dusina Disclaimer: Expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice. Any information provided is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation to buy, hold or sell any security. The information provided, whether charts, articles, or any other statements regarding market or other financial information, has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. The information provided does not constitute tax, legal, accounting, or other professional advice and is without warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the information. There are limitations associated with the use of any method of securities analysis. Indices are included for informational purposes only; investors cannot invest directly in any index. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Dividends are not guaranteed and must be approved by the company’s board of directors. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions, or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Links: Daniel Dusina: https://www.bluechippartners.com/abou... Dan Seder: https://www.bluechippartners.com/abou... Schedule an Intro Call: https://www.bluechippartners.com/sche... Disclosure Information: https://www.bluechippartners.com/disc... Podcast: https://www.bluechippartners.com/blue... Blog: https://www.bluechippartners.com/blog/ In the News: https://www.bluechippartners.com/in-t... Financial Services: Investment Management: https://www.bluechippartners.com/fina... Executive Compensation: https://www.bluechippartners.com/fina... Retirement Planning: https://www.bluechippartners.com/fina... Tax Planning: https://www.bluechippartners.com/fina... Estate Planning: https://www.bluechipestateplanning.com Career Opportunities: https://www.bluechippartners.com/abou... Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Q1 2026 outlook 01:34 – 2025 U.S. economic growth surprises 02:07 – AI investment as an economic tailwind 03:04 – Labor market trends & inflation outlook 05:12 – Are we in a stock market bubble? 07:57 – Why tech valuations look different today 10:22 – Portfolio concentration and diversification 12:56 – Small-cap and international equities gaining momentum 15:00 – Interest rates and small-cap performance 17:25 – International stocks, the dollar, and global policy shifts 20:44 – Bonds, yields, and portfolio diversification 23:07 – Key takeaways for investors entering 2026