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Stock Market May Rise Even Without Fed Rate Cuts

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 15:54 GMT by MarketWatch
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By Anya Sharma, Financial Correspondent

Published Tue, Feb 10, 2026 2:47 PM EST

The financial world is currently fixated on the Federal Reserve's next move. Will they begin lowering interest rates in the coming months? The anticipation has dominated market discussions for weeks, influencing investment strategies and fueling volatility. However, a growing chorus of analysts suggests that even if the Fed maintains its current stance - or even delays cuts further - the stock market is poised for continued growth in 2026.

Lindsey Bell, chief markets strategist at BMO Securities, succinctly captures this sentiment: "The market is likely to move higher, even if the Fed doesn't make any rate cuts." This isn't a dismissal of the importance of monetary policy, but rather a recognition that several other powerful forces are at play, propelling the market forward.

The S&P 500's impressive performance since the start of 2024 - a gain of approximately 16% - signals a robust underlying strength. This puts the index on track for its strongest two-year performance since 2019, a period characterized by sustained economic expansion. This momentum isn't solely dependent on anticipated rate reductions.

Beyond Rate Cuts: The Pillars of Market Strength

Several factors contribute to this optimistic outlook. Firstly, economic data, while showing signs of moderation, remains surprisingly strong. Labor markets continue to exhibit resilience, and consumer spending, although sensitive to inflation, hasn't collapsed. This provides a solid foundation for corporate earnings.

Secondly, corporate earnings have been positive, exceeding expectations in many sectors. While some companies face headwinds, the overall trend indicates profitability and growth. This is crucial for justifying valuations and attracting investment.

Finally, inflation, while still above the Fed's 2% target, is demonstrably easing. This provides some breathing room for the central bank and reduces the pressure to aggressively tighten monetary policy. The current trajectory suggests a gradual decline in price pressures, fostering a more stable economic environment.

Mike Dickson, chief investment officer at Riverfront Investment Group, emphasizes the forward-looking nature of the stock market: "The market has priced in a couple of rate cuts, but it's important to remember that the stock market is forward-looking. It's not so much about when rates will be cut, but what the economy looks like when rates are cut." This highlights a critical point - investors aren't simply reacting to current conditions; they're anticipating future growth. A healthy economy will support stock prices regardless of the timing of rate adjustments.

The Sticking Point: Persistent Inflation

However, the possibility of continued high inflation cannot be ignored. Some analysts, like Ed Clissold, chief U.S. economist at Ned Davis Research, are skeptical that the Fed will cut rates at all this year. "We don't think the Fed will cut rates at all this year," Clissold stated. "Inflation is proving stickier than expected." This perspective underscores the uncertainty surrounding the economic outlook and the potential for the Fed to remain hawkish for longer than anticipated.

Navigating Potential Turbulence

Despite the generally positive outlook, investors should remain vigilant. A market correction, while not necessarily imminent, is always a possibility. Geopolitical risks, unexpected economic shocks, or a sudden resurgence in inflation could trigger a sell-off. Dickson acknowledges this, stating, "It wouldn't take much to trigger a correction," but points to the market's recent ability to absorb negative news as a positive sign.

Furthermore, the possibility of a 'melt-up' - a period of rapid, unsustainable market gains - shouldn't be entirely dismissed. While considered a 'tail risk' by Bell, the combination of strong fundamentals and potentially excessive liquidity could fuel an accelerated ascent. This scenario, while unlikely, could create vulnerabilities and increase the risk of a subsequent correction.

The key is diversification and a long-term perspective. Investors should avoid chasing short-term gains and focus on building a portfolio that can withstand market fluctuations.

Looking Ahead: A Cautiously Optimistic Outlook

The consensus suggests that the stock market is likely to continue its upward trajectory in 2026, even in the absence of aggressive rate cuts. The underlying economic fundamentals, positive earnings trends, and easing inflation provide a solid foundation for growth. However, investors must remain aware of potential risks and be prepared to navigate inevitable periods of volatility. A cautious, disciplined approach will be essential to capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead.