[U.S. Corporate Earnings Growth Expectations Continue to Cool, Analysts Warn of Limited Margin for Error in High-Valuation U.S. Stocks] Jin10 News, October 13 – According to data compiled by Bank of America, although the S&P 500 Index's third-quarter earnings expectations remain strong, the earnings growth rate for 10 out of 11 sectors is expected to slow compared to the previous quarter. Industry research data shows that analysts predict the earnings growth rate for S&P 500 constituent stocks will decelerate from 25% in the third quarter of 2026 and 28% in the fourth quarter to 18% in the first half of 2027, indicating a slightly weaker overall earnings outlook for the future. A mere slowdown in earnings growth expectations is not enough to end the stock market rally. However, with U.S. stocks near historic highs and growing concerns that inflationary pressures may be more persistent than anticipated, U.S. companies must deliver sufficiently strong performance to drive the stock market to new highs. Luca Paolini, Chief Strategist at Pictet Asset Management, stated: "We are seeing early signs that earnings growth momentum may be peaking. Given how high the bar is for earnings growth expectations, even slightly underwhelming results could trigger a sharp market reaction."