As President Trump takes office, a new wave of policies—ranging from tariffs and tax cuts to America-first initiatives—is set to reshape the economic landscape. At the same time, investors face looming risks, including elevated valuations, potential trade tensions, and US fiscal challenges.

In this article, we explore actionable investment themes and ideas designed to uncover growth opportunities and deliver diversification benefits amidst these shifting dynamics in 2025.

Theme 1: Positioning for Trump’s Policy Beneficiaries : Focus on Industrials, Financials, and Small Caps

Many of Trump’s second-term policies mirror those from his first term, creating familiar opportunities for certain sectors. Financials and industrials stood out as top performers during his first presidency, and similar trends may re-emerge.

Financials could benefit from deregulation, fostering a more favorable environment for banks. Additionally, the surge in AI-related activity, such as M&A and IPOs, may further boost this sector.

Industrials are likely to gain from Trump’s policies encouraging supply chain reshoring to the US, spurring growth in manufacturing and infrastructure. This shift could drive demand for industrial goods and services, positioning the sector for robust performance.

US small caps could benefit from both the Fed’s lower rate policy and Trump’s policies. Analysts anticipate robust earnings growth in 2025 and 2026.

Theme 2 : Chinese Equities –  A Contrarian Tactical Opportunity

And, you know, many people in the investment community describe China as un-investable. To me, that word is music to my ears. I’ve made my whole career buying assets that other people consider un-investable. – Howard S. Marks (Co-chairman of Oaktree Capital Management)

While we acknowledge the structural challenges facing China’s economy, we think the market participants may be too pessimistic about Chinese companies. Chinese companies are trading at significant valuation discounts compared to their historical averages and global peers. Sectors like e-commerce, gaming, white goods, and industrials are particularly well-positioned to capitalise on emerging global supply chain shifts, leveraging robust local demand while expanding their global market presence.

Additionally, ongoing policy support is expected to stabilise the economy and provide a floor for the stock market.

Theme 3: Corporate Bonds –  Returns Supported by Attractive Bond Yields

Corporate bond yields are at their highest in a decade, presenting strong income opportunities in fixed income for 2025. The Fed remains in a rate-cutting cycle, albeit at a slower pace, and other developed market central banks are also reducing rates, capping the upside for US rates. Investors can still achieve attractive total returns primarily through yields. 

Theme 4: Diversification is Key –  Add Gold and Explore Derivatives-related instruments

Gold delivered an impressive performance in 2024, and we anticipate its momentum to carry through 2025. A key driver of this strength lies in higher central bank demand, particularly among developing markets. Meanwhile, potential trade disputes could incentivise emerging market central banks to diversify their reserves further into gold, where holdings remain relatively low.

More importantly, gold stands out as a compelling hedge against geopolitical risks and uncertainties surrounding sovereign debt and deficits. 

Investors may consider allocating to innovative derivative-related investments, which can enhance diversification by mitigating exposure to macroeconomic shocks that affect both equities and bonds.

Theme 5: Private Assets – Unlocking Opportunities Beyond Public Markets

Private assets, encompassing private credit and private equity, present compelling opportunities for higher returns in today’s market environment.  These increasingly accessible products open up new avenues for investors seeking to enhance their portfolio diversification and potential returns.

Private Credit:

As traditional bank lending conditions are tight, private credit has emerged as a dynamic alternative. Tailored to borrowers’ specific needs in size, structure, and timing, private credit solutions provide flexibility that conventional loans often lack. With the majority of these investments tied to floating rates, they adjust with interest rate changes. In an economy where US growth remains resilient and rates are expected to stay elevated, private credit stands out as a source of attractive returns.

Private Equity:

Private equity offers a gateway to participate in transformative trends like AI adoption. By targeting early-stage companies spearheading innovation in non-traditional sectors, private equity investors can tap into the structural growth of AI. These investments can position portfolios to benefit from the long-term evolution of key sectors reshaped by technology.

Ready for 2025? Dive into expert insights on key trends, risks, and opportunities that could shape your portfolio this year. Read more:  Syfe Market Outlook 2025:Thriving Amid Trumponomics 2.0 and Innovation