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U.S. stocks are expensive 'on almost any valuation metric.' Why they could remain so for a while.

The article from MarketWatch discusses the current high valuations of U.S. stocks, noting that by several traditional metrics like price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios, stocks are considered expensive. Despite this, the article suggests that these elevated valuations might persist due to several factors. Firstly, the low interest rate environment makes stocks more attractive compared to bonds, as investors seek yield. Secondly, there's a lack of viable alternatives for investment, pushing more capital into equities. Additionally, the article points out that market sentiment, driven by expectations of continued economic recovery and corporate earnings growth, supports these high valuations. Furthermore, the influence of passive investing and the momentum of market trends could keep stock prices buoyant. However, the piece also warns that while stocks might remain expensive for some time, investors should be cautious as high valuations could eventually lead to corrections if economic conditions change or if inflation and interest rates rise significantly.

Read the Full MarketWatch Article at:
[ https://www.marketwatch.com/story/u-s-stocks-are-expensive-on-almost-any-valuation-metric-why-they-could-remain-so-for-a-while-86e66fd1 ]