Understanding Momentum Investing and Its Current Surge

By Patricia Miller

May 26, 2026

2 min read

Momentum investing is thriving with AI stocks driving performance, but investors must watch for volatility and potential bubbles.

#What is driving momentum investing's success?

The strategy of investing in assets that are already showing upward trends has entered a remarkable phase of profitability. Currently, the MSCI global momentum index is outperforming the MSCI All Country World Index by a remarkable 17 percentage points since the close of March 2026. This substantial gap marks the strongest two-month performance difference eclipsed by any period recorded since Bloomberg began monitoring this information over 30 years ago. At the heart of this surge is the growing interest in AI stocks, attracting a significant number of investors eager to capitalize on this dynamic.

#How does momentum investing function?

Momentum investing operates on a systematic approach that favors stocks based on their past price performance. The MSCI ACWI Momentum Index, for instance, strategically selects and weighs stocks to ensure they remain liquid while capturing positive price movements. Essentially, it identifies the winners and chooses to support them as they gain traction in the market.

#Are there risks associated with momentum investing?

Expectations in momentum investing remain optimistic, with projections indicating continued performance for the upcoming months, though investors should be prepared for potential fluctuations. Some market analysts have raised concerns over the possible formation of asset bubbles as investors may overlook essential macroeconomic trends while pursuing the AI-centric narrative.

#What are the implications for cryptocurrency investors?

The downturn witnessed in 2022 illustrated a clear relationship between technology stocks and cryptocurrency markets. As tech stocks faced declines, growth-focused strategies fell sharply, and cryptocurrencies reacted similarly. Specifically, during periods of market distress, the connections between high-risk equity strategies and digital assets become particularly evident.

For those invested in cryptocurrencies, this emphasizes the need to track stock market volatility as an early warning signal. A dramatic reversal within the MSCI momentum factor—especially if prompted by overarching macroeconomic shifts instead of specific sector news—could serve as a crucial indicator that market sentiment is changing, impacting risk levels across investments.

Important Notice And Disclaimer

This article does not provide any financial advice and is not a recommendation to deal in any securities or product. Investments may fall in value and an investor may lose some or all of their investment. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance.