Barclays raised its year-end target for the benchmark S&P 500 index.SPX from 7,800 points to 7,950 points on Wednesday after an impressive earnings season led by technology companies. This revised target is approximately 3.6% higher than the index's recent closing price. The broker expects the benchmark index to rise to 8,800 points by the end of 2027. Barclays said investment in artificial intelligence and strong economic activity should support profit momentum in the next few quarters. The broker also raised the S&P 500's 2026 earnings per share forecast from $337 to $365.

After an impressive earnings season led by technology companies, Barclays raised its year-end target for the benchmark S&P 500 index.SPX from 7,800 points to 7,950 points on Wednesday. This revised target is approximately 3.6% higher than the index's recent closing price. The broker expects the benchmark index to rise to 8,800 points by the end of 2027. Barclays said investment in artificial intelligence and strong economic activity should support profit momentum in the next few quarters. The broker also raised the S&P 500's 2026 earnings per share forecast from $337 to $365.