Americans should always be invested in some part of the equity market, expert reveals

Market Outlook - The S&P 500 is projected to rise by 8% over the next year, indicating a potential shift in market dynamics [1] - Current market trends suggest a secular rally that began in March 2009, with a possibility of a 5% pullback, which is typical [2][3][4] Earnings and Growth - The recent earnings season has seen a higher number of companies beating earnings and sales expectations, indicating positive growth across a broader range of sectors beyond just mega-cap tech [5][6] - The average age of equipment in the U.S. is at record levels, suggesting that upgrading capital stock could enhance efficiency for many companies [7][8] Sector Performance - The market is expected to broaden out, with growth anticipated in sectors such as financials, healthcare, and labor-intensive consumer companies, moving beyond just technology [9][12] - Healthcare and energy sectors are currently undervalued, with significant ownership exodus and pricing in of bad news, presenting potential investment opportunities [24][25] Consumer Behavior - Consumption patterns are shifting, with growth seen in skilled labor and manufacturing, which may drive higher-paying jobs and consumption in the future [11][12][13] Investment Sentiment - Current market sentiment remains cautious, with Wall Street recommending an average stock allocation of 55%, below the benchmark of 60%, indicating that bullishness is not at euphoric levels [22][23]