This week on LPL Market Signals, LPL strategists describe last week’s marginal gain in the S&P 500 as a surprise, discuss keys for markets in 2026, and preview a busy week ahead including earnings from NVIDIA (NVDA) and several key retailers, minutes from the October Fed meeting, and the September jobs report, albeit about five weeks late.
Last week’s surprising gain in the S&P 500 came despite hawkish commentary from Federal Reserve (Fed) officials and increasing scrutiny on artificial intelligence investments. Healthcare led the way.
Artificial intelligence (AI) investment and adoption underpin several keys to 2026 as drivers of economic growth, corporate profits, and productivity. Monetary policy is another key factor for the economy, stock valuations, and bond performance. With valuations elevated, AI and the Fed will almost certainly need to cooperate if 2026 is going to be another rewarding year for stock investors.
The strategists then closed with a preview of the week ahead, including minutes from the October Fed meeting, the delayed September jobs report, and important earnings results from NVIDIA (NVDA) and leading retailers.
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