More than half of Asia-Pacific's rich worry about recession, Lombard Odier says

A Lombard Odier survey of more than 390 Asia‑Pacific high‑net‑worth individuals (Dec 2025–Feb 2026) found over half view an economic recession as their biggest concern for the next three years and nearly half worry about an equity market correction or crash. Respondents cited a turbulent global backdrop — U.S. tariffs and the Middle East conflict lifting energy prices and feeding inflation — as key risks that could prompt risk‑off positioning and increased focus on wealth preservation. The poll also found almost 40% lack succession planning, with Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia and Hong Kong among the least prepared markets. The findings suggest persistent downside risk sentiment among APAC wealthy investors, which could weigh on regional equity demand and bolster allocations to defensive assets.