Core Insights - Retail investors have been highly active in the markets this year, significantly increasing their investments in broad-based ETFs and other assets [1][2] - Despite institutional doubts about the sustainability of the AI trade, retail investors continue to invest in AI-related stocks [2] - Retail investor leverage has reached record levels, with brokerage account leverage exceeding $1.1 trillion, the highest since the 1990s [3][4] Investment Trends - Retail investors are purchasing assets at a rate 50% above last year's levels, indicating strong market participation [2] - Leveraged ETFs have seen assets surpassing $140 billion, reflecting the confidence of retail investors despite recent market volatility [5] - Individual investors have experienced a 15% return on the S&P 500 this year, contributing to a positive sentiment heading into the Thanksgiving holiday [7][9] Market Performance - The U.S. market has delivered strong returns over the past two years, with this year being the best in a quarter-century [9] - While some retail favorites have faced declines, broader ETF inflows have continued for 10 consecutive weeks, indicating sustained interest in diversified investments [11]

Market Overview - The current equity rally is characterized as a global affair with significant participation from various markets, driven by different dynamics [2][3] - Earnings growth is crucial for sustaining market momentum, with companies reporting favorable earnings despite external uncertainties [3][12] Capital Expenditure Trends - A notable increase in capital expenditure (capex) is observed, with a projected 50% rise this year, amounting to $350 billion, and expectations of close to a trillion dollars over the next three years [7] - The hyperscale capex trend, particularly in AI, is expected to benefit companies involved in this sector [4][7] Fiscal Policy Changes - There is a shift towards fiscal expansion in regions like Germany, with increased spending in sectors such as defense and infrastructure, which is expected to positively impact corporate fundamentals [8][9] - The unification and reform efforts in Europe are progressing, albeit slower than anticipated [8] Currency and Global Growth - Global growth is showing positive trends across key markets, with implications for currency dynamics, including a weakening yen and a strengthening dollar [6][10] - Central banks are diversifying reserve positions away from the dollar, although it remains the primary reserve currency [10][11] Corporate Earnings and Valuations - Despite potential corrections in the market, corporate earnings are expected to remain strong, with many companies demonstrating pricing power to pass costs onto consumers [12][15] - Valuations, particularly for larger cap companies, are viewed as relatively healthy, with ongoing earnings growth providing comfort despite high trading multiples [14][15]