HSBC raises S&P 500 target to 7,650, citing strong earnings and AI-driven tech momentum.

HSBC has upgraded its S&P 500 year-end target to 7,650, expecting a 3.4% gain driven by robust corporate earnings and momentum in AI-related technology stocks. The bank forecasts a 20% rise in earnings per share by 2026, led by major tech companies, but cautions that gains are currently concentrated in a few stocks. Other Wall Street firms like J.P. Morgan and Goldman Sachs also project strong earnings growth and higher index levels, with some targets exceeding 8,000 points if tech valuations and broader sector recoveries continue. Despite optimism, risks such as geopolitical tensions, inflation, and potential Federal Reserve policy changes could cause volatility.