US markets lift on strong AI‑related earnings and upcoming growth data

Optimism in global markets has risen as geopolitical tensions ease and technology companies deliver solid earnings. Micron Technology reported quarterly revenue of $41.46 billion, boosting AI‑related stocks and prompting a roughly 13 % post‑market rise in its shares. Investors are now focused on US economic data due later in the day, with the Commerce Department’s growth figures and the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index expected to shape the Federal Reserve’s rate outlook.

Wall Street analysts have responded by raising year‑end targets for the S&P 500. Stifel lifted its forecast to 7,800 points, citing strong corporate profits, while Barclays also lifted its target to 7,800 and set an 8,800 outlook for 2027. RBC Capital moved its target to 7,900, Goldman Sachs to 8,000, and Morgan Stanley to 8,300 for mid‑2027, pointing to continued AI investment and resilient earnings as key drivers. Despite lingering risks such as higher‑for‑longer interest rates and consumer‑spending uncertainty, the overall risk‑reward balance remains positive for equities.