Santa is coming to Wall Street early this season, and analysts say 2026 is shaping up to be another big year of gains

Market Performance - The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by over 3%, the S&P 500 surged nearly 4%, and the Nasdaq rose more than 4% during the Thanksgiving-shortened week [1][2] - The S&P 500 is projected to reach 7,000 by the end of 2025, reflecting a 19% gain, following two consecutive years of over 20% surges [3] Future Projections - Analysts predict the S&P 500 could hit 7,700 in 2026, indicating a 10% increase from the 2025 forecast [3] - Deutsche Bank forecasts the S&P 500 will finish 2026 at 8,000, representing a 17% increase from the recent close [5] - JPMorgan anticipates the S&P 500 could end 2026 at 7,500, with potential to reach 8,000 if the Federal Reserve continues to cut rates [5] Economic Outlook - The Roaring 2020s scenario is expected to continue, with GDP growth, consumption, and corporate profits remaining strong [4] - Analysts highlight above-trend earnings growth, an AI capital spending boom, and rising shareholder payouts as key factors supporting market performance [6]