A Reuters poll of 44 strategists and portfolio managers forecasts the S&P 500 index could reach 7,500 by the end of 2026, a roughly 10% gain from current levels. The projection is based on strong corporate earnings and steady U.S. economic growth, though experts cite concerns about AI disruption and inflation. Concurrently, data shows AI-driven investment is contributing at historic levels to GDP growth.
A new poll suggests the S&P 500 is poised for significant gains, predicting the index may hit 7,500 by year-end 2026. The forecast from 44 experts cited strong earnings and steady U.S. economic growth as key drivers.
The projected rise represents a gain of approximately 9.7% from a referenced level of around $6,800. However, the same poll acknowledged lingering concerns about inflation and potential Federal Reserve policy.
Sameer Samana, senior global market strategist at Wells Fargo Investment Institute, shared a cautious perspective. “It’s very difficult right now to point to where there’s a lot of weakness. Lingering concern around inflation, and what that means for the Fed,” he stated.
Separate data highlights the historic economic contribution from AI investment. The contribution of computers and peripheral equipment to real Q4 2025 GDP reportedly surged to +0.57 percentage points, described as the highest in history.
This marks the fourth consecutive quarter of above +0.30 percentage point addition to growth. Spending on information-processing equipment surged 36.1% last quarter according to the analysis.
Furthermore, combined capital expenditure from Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft may surge 70% year-over-year to a record $610 billion in 2026. The data indicates the AI investment boom is accelerating.
