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The Stock Market Is Doing Something Witnessed Only 2 Times in 153 Years -- and History Is Very Clear About What May Happen in 2026. The major benchmark is on track for its third annual increase -- and each time the gain has been in the double digits. All of this optimism has resulted in one potential risk.

The stock market seems optimistic that productivity has increased in the U.S. economy, even if it is hard to tell how much of that is linked to artificial intelligence or has arisen from a move toward automation and computers replacing labor during the pandemic, according to David Kelly, chief global strategist at J.P. Morgan Asset Management.

The latest Fed cut and outlook has further emboldened a move into cyclical names and broadening stock market rally.

Live Updates Get The Best Vanguard S&P 500 ETF Live Earnings Coverage Like This Every Quarter Get earnings reminders, our top analysis on Vanguard S&P 500 ETF, market updates, and brand-new stock recommendations delivered directly to your inbox.

Just a few weeks ago, the stock market stumbled over fears that artificial intelligence stocks might be in a bubble. Now stocks are back within reach of a record high.

It's far from clear that these pincer-like pressures on margins aren't long-term rather than temporary issues. In addition, a resolution to various conflicts in 2026, combined with the realization that government debt levels may curtail future defense spending, could turn sentiment negative toward defense stocks in 2026.

The economy is looking resilient and there are bargains below the AI surface. Where to invest in the new year.

After falling significantly from its highs over the past few years, UiPath (NYSE: PATH) shares have climbed 55% in the last three months. The robotic process automation software developer could be positioned for a breakout year, as interest in agentic artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow.

Here's what you need to know about whether U.S. stock markets will be open or closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day this year.