Markets likely to steadily broaden out in 2026, says Piper Sandler's Kantrowitz

Market Broadening & Economic Improvement - Piper Sandler anticipates a broadening market, driven by improvements in both macro and microeconomic factors, rather than a significant surge [2][3] - The market broadening is expected to be more about breadth than magnitude, indicating wider participation across sectors [2] - Stabilized interest rates and subsequent rate cuts by the Federal Reserve are seen as catalysts for economic improvement, positively impacting smaller businesses, lower-end consumers, housing, and manufacturing [5][6] - The anticipation of improved economic conditions is leading to anticipatory indicators showing positive signs [6] Labor Market & Monetary Policy - A soft labor market has alleviated inflation fears, allowing interest rates to decline and the Federal Reserve to implement rate cuts [8] - The current economic backdrop is described as "Goldilocks" in a post-inflation shock world, characterized by a simultaneous increase in the unemployment rate and the stock market [11] - The Federal Reserve's data-dependent approach, particularly concerning the unemployment rate, has influenced market perceptions and expectations regarding potential rate cuts [9][10] Tariffs & Market Uncertainty - The market exhibits a diminishing sensitivity to fear and uncertainty, including potential tariffs, as investors have become accustomed to navigating a "wall of worry" [13] - Investors are adopting a "show me first" approach, reacting to concrete events rather than preemptively fearing potential negative impacts from tariffs or other uncertainties [13]