Key insights from Funds Congress 2026

Funds Congress 2026 took place amid continued global uncertainty, but with a noticeably more confident industry mindset. Asset managers and investors alike are looking ahead to 2026 with renewed momentum, sharper data discipline and a clear focus on building resilient, future‑ready operating models.

Key takeaways

• Investor confidence is improving
  Managers reported stronger expectations for fundraising and deal activity, with investors increasingly data‑led and actively seeking diversification opportunities, particularly in the U.S.
• Governance and risk discipline are decisive
  Robust governance, oversight and structured risk frameworks are now central to investment decisions, with managers and investors alike showing less tolerance for weak controls.
• Private markets continue to evolve
  Demand for private assets, especially private credit, remains strong as investors seek diversification and more resilient income, accelerating the democratisation of private markets.
• Regulatory complexity is rising
  European regulation will continue to intensify through 2026, increasing demand for specialist, proportionate and commercially realistic regulatory support.
• Operating model transformation is critical
  The greatest opportunity for innovation lies in rethinking operating models. From modernising infrastructure to reducing manual dependency for speed, scale and resilience.
• AI is about speed as much as cost
  AI is already delivering material impact across the industry, with its real value increasingly seen in accelerating delivery and agility, not just reducing expense.

Looking ahead

Funds Congress 2026 reinforced that confidence is returning, but success will depend on how effectively firms adapt. Those best positioned for the next phase will be the ones that embed strong governance, harness data and AI at scale, modernise operating models, and stay focused on delivering controlled, client centric solutions.

Belasko combines deep private capital expertise with a human led, technology enabled delivery model that gives managers the clarity, control and speed they need as governance expectations rise and operating models evolve.

If you would like to discuss what this means for your structures or operating model, please contact Greg McKenzie, Country Head Luxembourg, at [email protected].