UBS On-Air: Market Moves

US average diesel prices broke above USD 6.50 per US gallon for the first time ever. Since January 2025, overall price levels (measured by the consumer price index) are up 4.8%, with motor fuel prices up 17.0%, feeding perceptions of an affordability crisis. US President Trump indicated a willingness to meet with Iranian President Pezeshkian. The rhetoric from both sides remains negative. The US agreement with Denmark on Greenland might be a positive (reframing an existing agreement could be a useful precedent), but limited trust between the US and Iran complicates things.

AI is giving robots new capabilities and attracting larger funding rounds, but rapid progress is also making tomorrow's leaders harder to identify. This episode draws on observations from Silicon Valley to explore the investment opportunities and disruption AI is creating, and the case for physical assets, cybersecurity, and diversification in portfolios.

A monthly discussion around the drivers behind equity market performance, along with the review of notable equity themes, positioning preferences, and a performance outlook. Featured are Jeff Hans, Portfolio Manager, Private Client US Equity, and Dominic Schagar, Investment Specialist, Active Equities with UBS Asset Management.

Amidst growing concerns over AI safety, Shane shares how the topic is currently being discussed and debated amongst Washington lawmakers. We also highlight the recent passage of the Sanctioning Russia Act, along with the list of Congressional focuses and priorities to be revisited by lawmakers post the November midterm elections. Featured Shane Lieberman, Senior Governmental Affairs Advisors, Governmental Affairs US. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Join David Lefkowitz, Head of Equities Americas, each month for a look at the factors that are driving performance across US equities. We also cover risk considerations, thematic focuses, and positioning recommendations from the UBS Chief Investment Office (as outlined within the latest UBS House View). This month, David reflects on the September FOMC meeting outcome and implications of higher rates to US equity markets, shares thoughts around AI adoption and progression amidst recent AI safety concerns, how to think about the US midterm elections as an equity investor, and more. Host: Daniel Cassidy