Overview
- A Bloomberg survey reported by Yahoo Finance found none of 21 sell-side strategists forecasting a U.S. stock decline in 2026, with the average S&P 500 target implying about a 9% gain.
- If realized, 2026 would be a fourth straight up year for equities after a roughly 90% S&P 500 advance since the October 2022 low.
- Massive spending on AI, data centers and chips continues to propel market leaders, with five tech giants accounting for nearly half of this year’s S&P 500 gains.
- Kiplinger highlights a selective approach for 2026 as CFRA’s Sam Stovall urges investors to stick with winners, citing subsector picks such as Amphenol, Newmont and Universal Health Services.
- Additional ideas center on AI infrastructure and software beneficiaries like Microsoft and natural-gas-linked plays such as Golar LNG, while beaten-down consumer staples, including Procter & Gamble or related ETFs, are flagged as potential opportunities.