May 8, 2026

Quarterly Stock Market Commentary for Q1 2026

Every quarter, our portfolio managers and research analysts provide in-depth analysis and insightful stock market commentary, analyzing performance, and discussing the latest trends and behaviors impacting the market.

At KAR, we offer high-conviction investment strategies focusing on quality businesses within the small cap, mid cap, large cap, and international asset classes.

In our Q1 2026 discussion roundup, you’ll find individual recaps of several of our actively managed strategies, all recorded in our podcast, KayneCast. By subscribing to KayneCast, you’ll be automatically notified when future updates become available, ensuring you’ll always stay informed and up to date on our investment strategies.

You can read the full Q1 2026 market review or revisit our past quarterly market review podcast episodes:

Q4 2025: Conviction, Not FOMO
Q3 2025: Low Quality Makes a Play: Can the Rally Hold?
Q2 2025: The Tariff Recoil: True Rally or Reflex?
Q1 2025: A Tumultuous Start to the Year

To learn more about KAR’s investment management services, contact our team today.

Q1 2026 Stock Market Recap

In our 1Q 2026 podcast, Julie Biel, Chief Market Strategist, reflects on a quarter defined by heightened geopolitical risk and shifting market leadership. She explores how the war in Iran emerged as the dominant macro force, supporting strong performance in energy and related industries while reshaping investor priorities across equity markets. Julie also discusses the expanding footprint of artificial intelligence beyond software—into data‑center infrastructure and memory—even as concerns around generative AI weighed on software‑heavy segments. Her commentary addresses evolving differences between large‑cap and small‑cap dynamics, increased scrutiny of private credit, and a practical framework for assessing how businesses may withstand disruption from generative AI.

KAR Contributors: Julie Biel

Listen to the full discussion in episode 308 of KayneCast or read the complete Q1 2026 Market Review Summary.

Q1 2025 Strategy Review

Episode 309: Applying a Cautious Playbook to AI and Asia Tech
KAR International Small Cap
Contributors: Hyung Kim, Ben Falcone

Episode 310: Agentic AI and the Economics of Software
KAR Large Cap Growth
Contributors: Chris Armbruster, Ben Falcone

Episode 311: Volatility Up, Quality Still Central
KAR Small Mid Cap Core
Contributors: Julie Kutasov, Ben Falcone

Episode 312: Oil Shock and Market Rotation
KAR Small Cap Quality Value Core
Contributors: Julie Kutasov, Ben Falcone

Episode 313: Navigating Volatility Without Chasing Energy
KAR Small Cap Core
Contributors: Jon Christensen, Ben Falcone

Episode 314: Sell Now – Ask Questions Later
KAR Mid Cap Core
Contributors: Jon Christensen, Ben Falcone

Episode 315: AI Fear and Factor Rotations Collide
KAR Mid Cap Growth
Contributors: Noran Eid, Ben Falcone

KARCast is the official podcast series of KAR. This material is provided as a matter of general information and is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast or research. The opinions expressed herein are those of the speakers and are not necessarily the opinions of KAR or its affiliates, are current as of the date and time of the recording, and are subject to change at any time due to changes in market or economic conditions. The information and opinions contained in this material are derived from proprietary and non-proprietary sources deemed by KAR to be reliable and are not necessarily all inclusive. KAR does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information. Any securities included in this podcast are based on objective, non-performance based criteria and such mentions should not be considered a recommendation to purchase or sell the securities mentioned. This podcast should not be construed as an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security. KAR’s strategies may not be suitable or appropriate for all investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Potential investors should always consult with their own financial professional before determining whether to invest in a particular investment or investment strategy. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. To the extent any performance is discussed, past performance is not indicative of future results.