Joel Elconin - Market Year in Review: Broadening Rally, AI Reality Check & 2026 Outlook

In this KE Report daily editorial, we wrap up the year with Joel Elconin, co-host of the PreMarket Prep show and founder of the Stock Trader Network. Joel shares his high-level takeaways from a volatile but ultimately constructive market year, breaking down what worked, what faded, and which themes may carry into 2026. Key discussion points include: 2025 Market Recap & Broadening Participation - A look at index performance, the shift away from mega-cap dominance, and why broader sector participation has been a healthy development. Small Caps, Rates & Rotation - How easing rate expectations supported small caps and value, and why rotation beneath the surface matters more than headlines. AI Trade: Winners, Losers & Reality Checks - From overheated valuations to infrastructure “picks and shovels,” Joel outlines where AI enthusiasm cooled and where fundamentals are reasserting control. Macro Wildcards: Fed, Inflation & Politics - Tariffs, inflation data, rate cuts, and political noise - what markets are watching and what investors may be underestimating. Sentiment, Risk & Positioning - Why this bull market continues to climb a wall of worry, plus practical thoughts on portfolio positioning based on time horizon and risk tolerance. Click here to visit Joel’s PreMarket Prep website - https://www.premarketprep.com/ Click here to visit the Stock Trader Network - https://www.stocktradernetwork.com/ ---------------- For more market commentary & interview summaries, subscribe to our Substacks: The KE Report: https://kereport.substack.com/ Shad’s resource market commentary: https://excelsiorprosperity.substack.com/ Investment disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Investing in equities and commodities involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Guests and hosts may own shares in companies mentioned.