Tech and U.S. exceptionalism drive confidence as markets eye new highs

• US exceptionalism and declining VIX (risk measure) indicate a positive market outlook, with expectations for new all-time highs in the S&P 500.
• AI is a significant tailwind for tech stocks; Apple is seen as undervalued for its AI monetization potential, similar to Google's past trajectory.
• Lower interest rates, particularly the 10-year Treasury yield, are expected to provide a tailwind for broader market and US equity performance.
• Netflix's recent stock decline is viewed as a minor 'overhang' rather than a broader market foreshadowing, with opportunities for strategic options trading.

Analysts express strong confidence in US equities, driven by easing volatility, the broadening impact of AI, and expectations of lower interest rates. They foresee new market highs and highlight opportunities in tech, particularly Apple, despite some individual stock concerns like Netflix's recent decline.