Market Overview
The S&P 500 has experienced a bull market, rising over 20% in each of the past two years, with expectations for another double-digit gain this year. The growth has been largely driven by technology stocks, especially in artificial intelligence (AI), as well as investor optimism about lower interest rates.
Top Stock Picks for 2026
Analysts have identified several promising stocks to invest in for 2026. Notable mentions include Nvidia, a leader in AI chip design, expected to benefit significantly from projected trillions in AI infrastructure spending; Eli Lilly, which has seen revenue growth from new weight loss drugs; and American Express, which is expanding its customer base among younger demographics. Other recommendations include Chewy, which has profitable AutoShip sales over 80% of net sales, and Amazon, with a robust $132 billion annual revenue run rate from its cloud services bolstered by AI.
Key Figures
Projected AI infrastructure spending could reach trillions over five years, while the S&P 500 has delivered gains exceeding 20% annually over the past two years.
