Yahoo Finance·2026-01-22 13:19Group 1 - The fourth quarter earnings season is gaining momentum, with major financial institutions like Charles Schwab and regional banks such as Fifth Third set to report results, alongside Netflix and Intel, which are expected to draw significant attention [1][5] - An optimistic consensus is emerging, with 7% of S&P 500 companies having reported fourth quarter results as of January 16, and analysts projecting an 8.2% increase in earnings per share, marking the potential for the 10th consecutive quarter of annual earnings growth for the index [2] - Analysts had initially anticipated an 8.3% increase in earnings per share heading into the reporting period, a decrease from the previous quarter's 13.6% growth rate, but expectations have been raised recently, particularly for technology companies [3] Group 2 - The current earnings season is expected to test the improved stock market breadth observed at the beginning of 2026, with ongoing themes from 2025, such as artificial intelligence and economic policies, continuing to influence market dynamics [4] - In addition to Netflix and Intel, other notable companies reporting this week include United Airlines, 3M Company, D.R. Horton, Johnson & Johnson, GE Aerospace, Procter & Gamble, Abbott Laboratories, and Capital One [5]