2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological change. For investors, the challenge is understanding which risks actually matter – and where opportunity may emerge.

In this episode of the MoneyShow MoneyMasters Podcast, Jason Schenker, president of Prestige Economics and chairman of The Futurist Institute, breaks down the major forces shaping markets in 2026. He shares his outlook on the labor market, inflation, and Federal Reserve policy, explains his “Cold War Two” framework for today’s geopolitical risks, and discusses how Artificial Intelligence is becoming an invisible but essential operating system across the global economy.

From macro trends to AI adoption and global power shifts, Jason offers investors a clear framework for navigating the year ahead with perspective rather than reaction.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Why 2026 Is a Pivotal Year

00:26 – Jason Schenker’s Background and Research Focus

01:51 – The State of the U.S. Labor Market

02:48 – Job Openings, Unemployment, and Market Mismatch

03:54 – Recession Risks and Payroll Trends

05:22 – Fed Policy and Rate Cut Expectations

06:10 – Inflation Pressures and the Fed’s Constraints

08:41 – The Cold War II Framework Explained

09:53 – Ukraine, China, Taiwan, and Global Risk

13:28 – AI as the New Operating System

16:38 – What AI Means for Investors and Businesses

19:45 – Key Takeaways for 2026 Investors

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