EM Corporate Debt: 5 Themes To Watch In 2026

William Blair868 FollowersFollow5ShareSavePlay(18min)Comment(1)SummaryAfter delivering another year of solid performance in 2025, emerging markets corporate credit appears poised for another solid year in 2026.The asset class outperformed developed market peers across most rating categories, supported by resilient fundamentals, attractive yields, and a broadening opportunity set.We examine five key themes shaping the evolving EM corporate debt landscape and outline how investors can navigate risks and identify potential investment opportunities. PhanuwatNandee/iStock via Getty Images After delivering another year of solid performance in 2025, emerging markets (EM) corporate credit appears poised for another solid year in 2026. The asset class outperformed developed market (DM) peers across most rating categories, supported by resilient fundamentals, attractive yields, and a broadening opportunityThis article was written byWilliam Blair868 FollowersFollowWilliam Blair is committed to building enduring relationships with our clients and providing expertise and solutions to meet their evolving needs. We work closely with the most sophisticated investors globally across institutional and intermediary channels. We are 100% active-employee-owned with broad-based ownership. Our investment teams are solely focused on active management and employ disciplined, analytical research processes across a wide range of strategies. We are based in Chicago with resources in New York, London, Zurich, Sydney, Stockholm, and The Hague, and dedicated coverage for Canada.