Q1 2026 Market and Performance Update

In WealthCo’s Q1 2026 Market and Performance Update, Dave Makarchuk, Chief Investment Officer, reflects on a volatile start to the year marked by heightened geopolitical tensions, including the U.S.–Iran conflict, rapidly shifting market sentiment, and continued uncertainty around interest rates and inflation. He reaffirms the core principles that define WealthCo’s investment approach, including its focus on downside protection, long-term discipline, and delivering investor peace of mind through a pension-style portfolio construction. 

Dave emphasizes that while markets experienced sharp movements throughout the quarter, WealthCo’s portfolios remained positioned defensively, prioritizing capital preservation over short-term upside. This approach proved particularly effective during the March selloff, where global equities declined significantly, yet balanced portfolios were down only modestly, supported by strong performance from alternative investments. He reiterates that avoiding large losses remains central to long-term financial success, even if it means underperforming during strong equity rallies. 

Performance in the first quarter highlighted the diversification benefits of WealthCo’s strategy. While core equities faced headwinds and fixed income struggled amid rising interest rates, alternative investments delivered positive results, with alternative growth and income strategies helping offset public market weakness. This “zig when markets zag” dynamic continues to reinforce the role of alternatives in smoothing returns and reducing overall portfolio volatility. 

The presentation concludes with a roundtable Q&A featuring Wealth Advisors Ryan Tod and Howard Wong, where they discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape, interest rate uncertainty, and how recent events may shape market conditions in the months ahead. The conversation reinforces the importance of staying disciplined through periods of volatility and maintaining a well-diversified portfolio amid an unpredictable macro environment. 

Looking ahead, Dave notes that markets have already begun to rebound following a temporary ceasefire announcement, underscoring how quickly sentiment can shift. While the near-term path remains uncertain, he expresses cautious optimism, pointing to strong underlying earnings, the resilience of diversified portfolios, and the long-term advantages of blending public and private market exposures. He reinforces that WealthCo’s balanced strategy—anchored by a meaningful allocation to alternatives—remains well positioned to navigate ongoing volatility while supporting clients’ long-term financial plans.