Top Wall Street firms raise S&P 500 2026 targets to 7,950 amid AI optimism
HSBC and UBS aim for 8,000; BofA remains lowest at 7,100 despite Middle East war fears
Major Wall Street brokerages have increased their price targets for the S&P 500 index in 2026, citing artificial intelligence growth and solid corporate earnings as key drivers. HSBC and UBS Global Wealth Management now forecast the index above 8,000 points. Barclays follows with a target of 7,950, matching Wells Fargo's projection. Strategists believe profitability from technology investments will sustain gains even if the ongoing war in Iran causes energy supply issues or inflation spikes. However, forecasts among analysts differ significantly. Bank of America Global Research holds the lowest estimate at 7,100 points, reflecting concerns regarding interest rates and slower economic growth. Other firms include BofA's partner Jefferies and Canaccord Genuity at 7,500; Evercore ISI at 7,750; Seaport Research Partners at 7,800; RBC Capital Markets at 7,900; and BNP Paribas at 7,500. Brokerages acknowledge the varying views on the broader economic outlook and the potential impact of geopolitical instability in the Middle East.
