Why Real Assets Are the New Growth Engine

David Zaltzman

 

Last night I was fascinated to read Brookfield’s 2026 Investment Outlook.

To truly understand where the global economy is headed in 2026, you have to look past the headlines and into the physical systems that make modern life possible. Brookfield’s latest Investment Outlook reveals that we are currently in the middle of a $100 trillion infrastructure “supercycle” that will redefine the next decade. From the massive “AI factories” required to power the digital revolution to the total restructuring of global supply chains, this report outlines exactly where the smartest capital is moving. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking for the next growth engine or an investor seeking stability in a changing world, this is the essential roadmap for the year ahead.

 

The era of easy money through financial shortcuts is over, making way for a period where real-world results matter most. We are entering a massive growth cycle driven by three major forces: the move to digital, the shift toward local supply chains, and the global transition to clean energy. AI is not a concept or a trend anymore. It is a core business tool, and it is creating a huge demand for physical support. To see the full benefits of AI, the world needs trillions of dollars in new infrastructure: everything from massive data centers and fiber networks to a completely upgraded power grid. For leaders and entrepreneurs, this means the most reliable way to build wealth now is by investing in the physical backbone that makes the modern economy possible.

 

This shift requires a change in mindset for anyone running a business or managing capital. Success no longer comes from just moving numbers around on a balance sheet; it comes from the ability to manage complex operations and adapt to a changing energy landscape. We are seeing a return to industrial strength as companies bring production back home to protect their technology and supply lines. At the same time, credit markets are opening up again, allowing for new deals and growth. The winners in 2026 will be those who stay disciplined and focus on high-quality assets that produce steady cash flow. By focusing on the essentials of power, data, and housing, we aren’t just watching the world change; we are building the foundation for the next decade of productivity.

 

For hoteliers and real estate investors, the roadmap for 2026 is clear: the market has officially shifted from “waiting for recovery” to “active tactical execution”. With credit markets reopening and $120 billion in CMBS issuance signaling a massive return of liquidity, the window to acquire high-quality, de-risked assets is wide open. Whether it is the supply-starved hospitality sector in Asia-Pacific or the urgent global need for institutional housing, success now belongs to those who prioritize operational excellence over mere financial engineering. The true value in this next cycle won’t just be found in the entry price, but in the hands-on transformation of assets, turning undercapitalized properties into high-performing, resilient platforms that can weather any economic storm.