Core Viewpoint - Investors are optimistic about the stock market extending its rally into next year, with major firms setting bullish price targets for the S&P 500 by the end of 2026 [2][7]. Group 1: Price Targets and Market Projections - RBC Capital Markets projects the S&P 500 to reach 7,750 by December 2026, indicating a potential gain of approximately 13% from current levels [2][7]. - Other firms like HSBC and Deutsche Bank have set their 2026 targets at 7,500 and 8,000 respectively, reflecting a consensus of double-digit percentage gains by the end of next year [7]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Stock Performance - Analysts at RBC highlight a competition between growth and value stocks, suggesting that while value stocks currently have an edge, the market dynamics could shift [3][4]. - The success of the top 10 market cap names has defined this year, but there is an expectation of leadership rotation influenced by market sentiment and concerns over AI concentration [4][6]. Group 3: Economic Influences and Market Sentiment - The tug-of-war between growth and value stocks is expected to be influenced by familiar themes such as the labor market, AI developments, and political risks [8]. - Analysts caution against overemphasizing the Federal Reserve's meeting-by-meeting decisions, suggesting that broader economic trends will have a more significant impact on the market's trajectory [10].