Looking for the stock market outlook for the first half of 2026? See what you should consider heading into the new year to help be prepared.

Even though many Americans remain glum about the economy and the state of the country, there may be good news in financial markets next year.

The market has performed exceptionally well in the past decade, well ahead of its historical track record. Since mid-December 2015, the widely followed benchmark of 500 large and profitable U.S. businesses has produced a total return of 290% (as of Dec. 17), amounting to a compound annual rate of 14.6%.

Wall Street analysts expect another strong year in stocks in 2026, propelled by continued AI sector gains and additional Fed interest-rate cuts.