Investors faced one of the most turbulent quarters in recent memory during Q1 2026. The year began with optimism, but markets were soon affected by the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, a historic surge in oil prices, significant movements in bonds and currencies, and the rapidly growing impact of artificial intelligence. In the sections below, we recount the story of Q1 2026 in ten charts, from the initial equity rally to the lasting opportunities in fixed income.