The Barings Investment Institute conducts proprietary research to help our teams make the most of the firm’s unique expertise in public and private markets around the world, while exploring the forces that shape long-term investment and capital decisions.

White Paper - 20 min read

Artificial Intelligence: Turbo-Charging The New Digital World

Building the foundations of Artificial Intelligence systems is a key driver of economic growth today. Specifically, combining Big Data and Machine Learning has the power to transform business models and whole industries.

Global PMIs Suggest the Recovery is Getting Wavy

Global PMIs show differentiation by country and a wavy path to recovery. The U.S. September employment report is expected to show continued improvement in the labor market, but at a slower pace. U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced sweeping virus-control measures.

Investors Beware! Trump & Biden Agree On Something!

China’s rapid post-pandemic recovery looks tempting, but relations with the U.S. will get worse regardless of who wins the White House.

The Fed Upgrades Forecast & Downgrades Dots

The Fed signals no rate hikes through 2023 amid a slow return of inflation. Yoshihide Suga, Japan's new prime minister, should continue Shinzo Abe's platform with a smooth transition, while global flash PMIs next week should shed light on how the recovery is unfolding in September.

It’s Not the Beginning of the End; It’s the End of the Beginning

As investors look past the pandemic, the weak cycle coming into view means the best returns depend on identifying secular change.

Central Banks Talking the Talk after Walking the Walk

Look for messaging, more than actions, at global central bank meetings. U.S. retail sales are expected to hold up in August despite the expiration of unemployment benefits, and the Brexit Isles are upon us as talks heat up.

Research Note - 4 min read

The Impact of COVID-19 on Commercial Real Estate Capital Markets

While the Global Financial Crisis indiscriminately impacted volumes and pricing across commercial property types, the impact of the pandemic on capital markets, has been more selective, widening the gulf between “winner” and “loser” property types.

The Pandemic’s Unexpected Upside

The coronavirus lockdown seemed sure to delay the world’s climate agendas but may instead have given them an unintended boost.

Monthly Macro Dashboard - 8 min read

The Glass Is Still Half Full (For Now)

World economies have rebounded from lockdowns faster than expected despite much differentiation among them. Much still depends on further progress in managing COVID-19 and continuing policy stimulus.

Keep Your Eye on the Loser

The election’s winner will drive market sentiment for the next several months, but the loser could reshape economic policy for the decade.

Preparing for Jackson Hole Virtual Backgrounds

Look for insights from the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium next week. Personal spending and income growth are expected to slow in July amid financial concerns weighing on consumer confidence. Talks with China should begin soon as the U.S. continues to lay restrictions.