Asks if markets are complacent given benign reaction to Middle East conflict.
Haidi Stroud-Watts
David Solomon
I don't see complacency. There's a lot of uncertainty around the conflict's direction and resolution. Market reactions have been relatively benign, but participants are assessing scenarios. Risk premiums could change with more information in the coming week or two.
David Solomon
For portfolio allocation, no one is saying to change fundamental allocation because of the conflict. Traders think about risk premium daily.
Asks about lack of policy predictability and Middle East operations.
Haidi Stroud-Watts
David Solomon
We run a global business and accept uncertainty. We have base beliefs but are prepared to risk-manage and pivot when facts change.
David Solomon
In the Middle East, our primary focus is safety of our people. It's not business as usual; operations are work-from-home.
Asks about AI investment sustainability and 'dumb things'.
Haidi Stroud-Watts
David Solomon
AI is a fabulous technology that will drive massive productivity gains. There's a lot of capital deployed; some will get returns, some won't. We're early in the process. I look at the glass half full.
Asks if US trade policy uncertainty is a concern after Supreme Court ruling.
Haidi Stroud-Watts
David Solomon
Uncertainty affects sentiment, but US trade policy isn't that uncertain now. The administration has been clear. The Supreme Court decision affects certain tariff discharges, but there are other avenues.
Asks if global uncertainty makes idiosyncratic markets like Australia more interesting.
Avril Hong
David Solomon
Australia is always an important market and economy for Goldman Sachs. We have 400 people here and important clients.
Asks about China market given crosswinds on trade, tech, geopolitics.
Avril Hong
David Solomon
China is one of the largest economies. I'm focused on the US-China bilateral relationship. Looking forward to Trump's visit with Xi. More clarity on the relationship going forward is needed.
Asks about private credit and systemic risk.
Haidi Stroud-Watts
David Solomon
Credit formation correlates with economic growth. In the US, we've had a long time without a credit cycle. When cycles are long, credit spreads narrow, lending standards can deteriorate. We're watching for too much aggression/froth.