29 January, 2026
Explore our 2026 outlook on digital infrastructure, tokenisation, retail demand for alternatives, AI-led operations, regulation, ESG delivery, and private markets.
Financial markets are entering a phase where digital infrastructure is no longer an experiment or a differentiator. It is becoming core to how capital is formed, valued, transferred, distributed, and safeguarded. Tokenisation, stable digital money, and interoperable market infrastructure are converging to reshape liquidity, valuation, and access across public and private markets. The institutions that succeed will be those that move decisively from proof of concept to a cohesive, scaled, trusted execution.
Expect continued growth in retail channel demand for alternative assets, driven by new liquid structures and strong market interest. Partnering with third-party experts will remain vital for operational efficiency. Major 2026 trends will include increased investment in data centers and AI, enhanced transparency, and rapid innovation in technology like DLT and AI to support greater liquidity, transferability, and sustainable business growth.
The financial services landscape is undergoing a profound transformation as artificial intelligence (“AI”), data-driven strategies, and tokenisation become embedded in every operational process. Traditional manual tasks are increasingly handled by automated solutions, fundamentally changing how firms manage compliance, risk, and client interactions. In addition to the efficiency gains, tech-enabled distribution ecosystems and partnerships, underpinned by new disruptive technologies, are opening up new market opportunities.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re seeing some clear trends: liquid alternatives and the retailisation of private markets are really gaining momentum. There’s a big push for efficiency, with clients turning to technology and AI to cut costs and scale up. Private credit, evergreen funds, and hybrid structures are hot topics. Plus, outsourcing and smart tech partnerships are now essential, as AI changes everything from picking investments to streamlining operations.
As digital asset services become embedded in robust regulatory frameworks, especially in the UAE, Bahrain, and potentially Saudi Arabia, new opportunities are opening in tokenised funds and real asset products. Meanwhile, the expansion of family offices in the Gulf Cooperation Council (“GCC”) and structured wealth platforms in India is driving demand for advanced administration and governance.
We’re seeing a surge in demand for real-time, integrated data, more automation and AI to improve efficiency, and stricter focus on data governance and regulatory standards. By staying ahead of these trends, we’ll be empowering our clients with the transparency, adaptability, and confidence they need to thrive as the industry grows in 2026.
Expect a bigger push for in-person, authentic connections, bold and innovative ideas, and seamless digital storytelling in 2026. Top trends include embedding AI into processes, tailored client experiences, renewed focus on sustainability and ESG in some regions, and increased investment activity in others. Staying agile and open to experimentation will be key for asset managers navigating these changes.
Clients in pensions and private wealth will be seeking more integrated, tech-enabled investment solutions in 2026. There's also a big push towards private market access, improving governance, and using technology like AI and tokenisation for efficiency. Resilience, diversification, and clear reporting matter most, while venture capital and ESG-linked strategies are gaining traction. Demand for specialist managers and due diligence is up, and family offices are institutionalising to keep pace with growing market complexity.
The UK financial sector will undergo dynamic transformation in 2026. Sweeping innovations in digital assets, shifting regulatory landscapes, and bold investments in defence and infrastructure are redefining the market’s foundations. With the transformation of private markets and technology accelerating change, the ability to embrace agility and forward-thinking will be critical.
Luxembourg’s asset-management sector is set to be shaped by advanced digitalisation, AI-driven operations, and broader access to alternative assets in 2026. We expect firms to focus on innovation and efficiency, navigating evolving regulations and increased governance expectations. The rise of tokenisation and personalised digital services will boost competitiveness, while talent shortages and compliance demands remain key challenges for growth and transformation.
2025 will be remembered as a year where the brakes were applied to the rapidly developing regulatory landscape. The market is taking stock of what is being asked of it and determining what is really driving positive change. It was also a year of consolidation of providers in the market, with a number of key players rising to prominence. Holtara is poised to continue to set the pace in providing a rounded service encapsulating advisory, platform solutions, and client success management in 2026.
Companies are moving from talk to tangible action, embedding CSR into operations, focusing on community engagement, and demanding leadership accountability. While the sustainability agenda shifted in 2025, ongoing groundwork is laying the foundation for future growth. AI and technology will drive smarter sustainability efforts, with ethical governance and transparency coming to the fore in 2026.
