U.S. equity markets entered 2026 following another strong year for stocks, according to Rigney Financial Services, which said 2025 reinforced the importance of maintaining long-term investment discipline amid volatility and policy uncertainty.
In a January client letter, the firm noted that major market benchmarks posted a third consecutive year of double-digit returns in 2025, overcoming investor concerns tied to tariffs, inflation, deficit spending, and elevated valuations. Rigney Financial said skepticism surrounding the market has been persistent in recent years, yet equities have continued to advance as corporate earnings expanded.
The firm pointed to double-digit earnings growth among S&P 500 companies in 2025 as a key driver of market performance, particularly within the technology sector. Rigney Financial said earnings growth remains a central factor supporting stock prices and could continue into 2026.
Rigney Financial also said policy developments tend to influence markets most directly when they affect corporate profitability. During 2025, periods of heightened volatility coincided with tariff-related pressures, while markets recovered after trade restrictions eased.
Lower interest rates were another major factor shaping returns last year, according to the firm. Rigney Financial noted that moderating inflation and Federal Reserve rate cuts supported gains in both stocks and bonds, with investment-grade bonds posting solid returns while equity valuations remained elevated.
The firm’s outlook comes as new federal data released Monday by the U.S. Department of the Treasury showed the economy entering 2026 with solid growth, easing inflation pressures, and generally stable labor markets, as previously reported by The Dallas Express, framing a broader macroeconomic backdrop for corporate earnings and investment activity.
Looking ahead, Rigney Financial said markets in 2026 may continue to face volatility tied to policy uncertainty, fiscal stimulus, Federal Reserve decisions, and continued investment in artificial intelligence. While those factors could contribute to market swings, the firm said long-term investors should remain focused on diversification and disciplined portfolio management.
Rigney Financial Services said its guidance continues to emphasize broad diversification, risk management, and maintaining alignment with long-term financial goals rather than reacting to short-term market movements.
The firm provides financial planning, retirement strategies, and portfolio management services, with offices in Cabot and Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, and Grapevine, Texas.
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