AMERICANS EXPECT ECONOMY AND STOCKS TO RISE IN 2026 Most Americans predict the economy and stock market will improve over the next six months, though many expect higher inflation and unemployment, according to a Jan. 2–17 Gallup poll. • Stock Market & Growth: 50% expect market gains; 49% foresee economic growth, outweighing pessimism. • Interest Rates: Views are split, with 41% expecting rates to fall and 36% expecting increases. • Inflation & Unemployment: 62% anticipate rising inflation; 50% expect higher unemployment. • Political Divide: Republicans are broadly optimistic across all metrics, while Democrats and independents are more pessimistic. Overall, optimism has recovered from last spring’s market uncertainty but remains below record highs.(*Walter Bloomberg)