US stock market hits all-time high as investors bet big on AI

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported that US stocks reached record levels on Tuesday as investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence continued to drive buying on Wall Street. The S&P 500 closed 0.58 percent higher, surpassing its previous peak from mid-August, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite also finished at an all-time high, rising 0.45 percent. The report said the gains were led largely by major technology companies, with several of the so-called “Magnificent Seven” closing higher.

Amazon, Microsoft and Tesla were among the strongest performers, while Apple, Alphabet and Nvidia also advanced. Meta moved lower. Other technology names, including Marvell Technology and Cisco, posted larger gains. Al Jazeera quoted Truist Advisory Services chief investment officer Keith Lerner as describing the rally as a technology and AI-driven surge, saying the sector has become the dominant theme in the market.

The article said the broader rally has continued despite several pressures on the US economy, including elevated oil prices and a sell-off in government bonds tied partly to concerns about rising debt. The S&P 500 is up 14 percent so far in 2026, and the Nasdaq has risen 18.78 percent. Al Jazeera added that historical patterns and expectations for corporate earnings could support further gains, though higher interest rates remain a key risk.

For context, the report also noted that Asian markets were weaker on Wednesday and oil prices remained elevated, underscoring how closely global markets are watching inflation, energy and geopolitical developments alongside the AI investment boom.