In the first episode of Wealth DFM Talk for 2026, our Content Editor Matt Williams and Editor Sue Whitbread explore how portfolio construction needs to evolve amid changing currency dynamics, market concentration and renewed uncertainty.
Joining the discussion is Mike Coop, Chief Investment Officer at Morningstar Wealth. Together, we unpack what a weakening US dollar means for investors, how advisers can think about diversification beyond the obvious, and whether the growing dominance of a handful of US mega-cap stocks is creating hidden risks or new opportunities.
Mike also reveals why forecasting has become more challenging, even with higher interest rates back in play, and whether volatility really should push investors toward more active trading.
Listen now to the Wealth DFM Talk Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon!
Mike Coop
Mike Coop is the Chief Investment Officer for Morningstar’s Investment Management group for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region. With 27 years’ financial services experience, Mike holds responsibility for Morningstar’s managed portfolios offering in the region and oversees Morningstar’s 20-strong investment management team for the EMEA region, ensuring world-class investment solutions are delivered to investors. Previously, Mike was the Head of Multi-Asset Portfolio Management for Morningstar Investment Management in EMEA.
Prior to working at Morningstar, Mike worked at Prudential Portfolio Management, where he was Head of Multi Asset Portfolio Management, following his time at Ibbotson Associates Australia, whereby Mike served as Head of Multi-Asset Strategies. Earlier in his career, he was an equity strategist at BT Investment Management, a global asset allocation strategist at AXA Investment Managers, and a manager research consultant at Bacon & Woodrow.
Mike holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Auckland and a MSc. Finance from Birkbeck College, University of London. He is an Associate of the Institute of Investment Management & Research (IMMR).
Disclaimer
IFA Talk is for financial professionals only. All material has been carefully checked for accuracy, but no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies. Wherever appropriate, independent research and whatever necessary legal advice should be sought before acting on any information contained in this podcast.
Value of investments and income from them go down as well as up, so you may not get back the amount you originally invested.
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