What's keeping equity markets climbing into 2026?

The stock market's momentum through 2025 isn't just a one-year phenomenon. Major financial institutions are making a case for continued strength heading into the next year. The reasoning? A combination of economic resilience, corporate earnings potential, and strategic policy tailwinds that could sustain investor appetite for risk assets.

This outlook matters beyond Wall Street. Market cycles and equity performance often influence broader asset allocation decisions, including how investors think about digital assets and crypto exposure. When traditional markets show staying power, it reshapes portfolio strategy and capital flows across markets.

The bull case hinges on several factors: persistent consumer demand, technological productivity gains, and valuations that—while elevated—could justify further upside if earnings growth follows. There's debate, of course. Skeptics point to geopolitical risks and rate dynamics. But the structural arguments for sustained equity performance remain in play.

For traders and investors watching both traditional and crypto markets, understanding these macro currents is essential. Asset cycles are interconnected, and when equities have this kind of forward momentum, it often signals broader risk appetite in the financial system.