Ed Yardeni raised his year-end 2026 target for the S&P 500 to 8,250 from 7,700, implying nearly 12% upside from Friday’s close. The Yardeni Research chief investment strategist cited stronger-than-expected first-quarter earnings and increased his earnings-per-share estimates to $330 for 2026 and $375 for 2027. Yardeni said consensus earnings forecasts have “rocketed above our targets,” driving an “earnings-led meltup” in equities. HSBC and CFRA Research also lifted their S&P 500 targets, though

Ed Yardeni raised his year-end 2026 target for the S&P 500 to 8,250 from 7,700, implying nearly 12% upside from Friday’s close. The Yardeni Research chief investment strategist cited stronger-than-expected first-quarter earnings and increased his earnings-per-share estimates to $330 for 2026 and $375 for 2027. Yardeni said consensus earnings forecasts have “rocketed above our targets,” driving an “earnings-led meltup” in equities. HSBC and CFRA Research also lifted their S&P 500 targets, though analysts warned elevated valuations and Middle East tensions remain risks to the rally.