These two developments can stop US stocks relentless surge in 2026

US stocks have been charging higher with remarkably little resistance in 2026, repeatedly shrugging off inflation worries, geopolitical risks and elevated borrowing costs. The benchmark S&P 500 index climbed above 7,800 for the first time intraday on Thursday before finishing at a record 7,798.99, extending a rally that has pushed the benchmark roughly 14% higher year to date.