Robertson Stephens Weekly Commentary – October 5, 2026

Eurozone inflation rose to an uncomfortably high 3.8% in August. More inflation and economic data for Europe will be forthcoming this week, along with a number of speeches by European Central Bank officials. Despite signs of a further slowing in economic growth, it is highly likely that the ECB will continue to take a tough line on raising interest rates in an effort to slow the escalation of prices. In the third quarter, markets absorbed higher rates, rising oil prices, and renewed inflation concerns, and continued to advance. Strong earnings, consumer spending, and sustained AI-related investment kept growth intact, although that CAPEX may also be reinforcing a higher-for-longer rate environment. On the wealth planning front, we discuss strategies for supporting adult children financially while encouraging independence and long-term self-sufficiency.