Core Insights - Wall Street has shown moderate performance in early 2026, with the S&P 500 gaining 1.1%, Dow Jones up 3.6%, and Nasdaq Composite down 0.9%, while small-cap index Russell 2000 has surged 6.5% and State Street SPDR Portfolio S&P 600 Small Cap ETF SPSM has increased by 8.7% [1] Market Performance - The small-cap stocks are outperforming larger peers, indicating a shift in investor preference towards domestic-focused companies amid macroeconomic uncertainties [10] Macro Environment - Key factors influencing market performance include heightened geopolitical tensions, a rebound in the U.S. dollar, fluctuations in precious metals, and the impact of winter storm Fern on natural gas prices [2] Geopolitical Tensions - Increased geopolitical concerns arose from U.S. actions against Venezuela and potential actions regarding Iran, which have contributed to market unease [3][5] U.S. Dollar Dynamics - The U.S. dollar strengthened following the nomination of Kevin Warsh, viewed as a hawkish central banker, benefiting small-cap stocks due to their lower foreign exposure [6] Earnings Outlook - U.S. small-cap earnings are expected to rebound, with the S&P 600 index projected to achieve 12.7% positive earnings growth in 2025, followed by steady growth of 10.7% and 14.7% in 2026 and 2027, respectively [7] Valuation Metrics - The Russell 2000 trades at a trailing P/E of 36.56X and a forward P/E of 23.25X, indicating potential undervaluation compared to the Nasdaq 100's forward P/E of 24.69 [8] Small-Cap ETFs Performance - Notable small-cap ETFs include Invesco S&P SmallCap 600 Revenue ETF (RWJ) up 11.6%, Pacer US Small Cap Cash Cows Growth Leaders ETF (CAFG) up 9.4%, and others showing strong momentum [11]