2026 Market Outlook: Investment Strategies by Type as Indicated by Tom Lee and Benjamin Cowen

Fundstrat co-founder Tom Lee and prominent market analysts such as Benjamin Cowen, who leads Into The Cryptoverse, have released intriguing analyses of the economic outlook for 2026. Both point out that while the global economy faces a complex risk environment, there are long-term growth opportunities in certain asset classes.

Market Risks in 2026: Multiple Uncertainties Could Chain Together

According to Lee’s latest analysis, factors such as rising geopolitical tensions, uncertainty over tariff measures, and political polarization are expected to exert significant downward pressure on both the stock and cryptocurrency markets throughout 2026. It is projected that the U.S. stock market alone could see a decline of 15–20% over the year.

These risk factors are likely to accelerate market corrections from the first half to the mid-year, potentially leading to a rapid deterioration in investor sentiment. However, an important point Lee emphasizes is that such corrections do not necessarily imply a long-term bearish scenario.

Policy Shift by the Federal Reserve as a Rebound Catalyst

The main catalyst for a market rebound in the latter half of the year is seen as a major shift in U.S. monetary policy. If the Federal Reserve pivots to a dovish stance and ends quantitative tightening, the situation could improve dramatically. Under such circumstances, a strong recovery toward the end of the year is quite plausible.

Bullish Scenario for Bitcoin Reaching New Highs

Despite short-term volatility and downward pressures, Lee is confident that Bitcoin will break its all-time high (ATH) in 2026. As of February 5, Bitcoin has already risen to $126,080, making a new peak an achievable goal.

According to Lee, Bitcoin reaching a new peak would mark a milestone, symbolizing that it has fully overcome the maximum risk-adjusted phase since the deleveraging event on October 10, 2023. This event represented the most severe reset in the current market cycle, and overcoming it would serve as a psychological turning point, restoring confidence in digital assets overall.

Asset Selection Strategies by Type in 2026

Even in an uncertain environment in 2026, certain asset types will remain the preferred choices for investors. Lee highlights high-quality asset classes such as the energy sector, basic materials stocks, and traditional value assets like gold. These are expected to maintain stability even amid high macroeconomic uncertainty.

At the same time, sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain are anticipated to continue benefiting from long-term growth trends, despite ongoing short-term volatility. This is based on structural industry trends and is less affected by temporary market corrections.

Benjamin Cowen also suggests that certain assets, such as precious metals, could outperform cryptocurrencies during some periods in 2026. Particularly during extended macroeconomic pressures, these traditional assets are likely to be reevaluated and gain renewed interest.

In conclusion, the investment strategy for 2026 should aim to minimize losses during market corrections while maximizing profit opportunities following policy shifts. Proper diversification of asset classes will be key to achieving long-term returns.