S&P 500 Nears Record High on Strong Earnings Outlook

The S&P 500 extended its rally for a third consecutive day, moving within striking distance of its record high. The advance is fueled by expectations of strong second-quarter earnings from US corporations.

Investors are positioning for what could be a solid earnings season, with many companies expected to report better-than-expected results. The index is now on course to break its previous all-time high set earlier this year.

Market sentiment remains optimistic, though some caution persists over potential headwinds such as inflation and monetary policy. For now, the earnings outlook is the primary driver pushing equities higher.