Robertson Stephens Weekly Commentary – March 30, 2026

The OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) has gained considerable attention recently, with a forecast for US inflation in 2026 well above 4% as a result of escalating oil prices and other consequences of the Iranian war. This forecast was contained in an interim economic outlook formulated sometime after the start of the conflict and published on March 26. US equity indexes finished a volatile, headline-driven week mixed, as a relatively light economic calendar left investors largely focused on shifting geopolitical developments, oil price volatility, and continued pressure on large-cap technology stocks. Equities rallied to start the week amid optimism that the conflict in the Middle East could de-escalate. On the wealth planning front, we discuss how tax strategy is often about timing—using familiar tools earlier to improve long-term outcomes.