Evercore ISI sees US stocks rising another 20% by 2026 on AI optimism

Evercore ISI forecasts the S&P 500 could climb 20% to 7,750 by 2026, driven by AI-fueled earnings and tech gains. [https://invezz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-15.webp] US equities could climb another 20% by the end of 2026, fueled by what strategists at Evercore ISI describe as a transformative wave of artificial intelligence adoption. The forecast, issued in a note by the firm’s chief equity and quantitative strategist Julian Emanuel, sees the S&P 500 reaching 7,750 points by the end of next year. The projection underscores the growing belief on Wall Street that AI is reshaping corporate earnings and valuations. Emanuel described the shift as “a technological revolution lifting stocks, multiples and society to new heights.” The outlook builds on the S&P 500’s nearly 10% advance so far this year and a string of record highs over the past four months. AI SEEN AS KEY DRIVER OF EARNINGS According to Evercore ISI, the impact of artificial intelligence has already helped earnings exceed expectations, even amid uncertainties around tariffs and policy. The firm highlighted the second quarter as delivering “double-digit growth and broad upside surprises,” suggesting AI-related…