Tom Lee's first appearance of the new year: a broad market rally at the start of the year is a good sign, but a bear market may appear around mid-year

On January 8th, Tom Lee stated in an interview with CNBC that a broad rally at the beginning of 2026 (stocks, precious metals, cryptocurrencies, etc.) has always been a good sign for investors and institutional investors. This year will be a year of “joy, depression, and rally,” similar to the pattern in 2025. “There will be a moment this year when it feels like entering a bear market,” but then there will be a strong rebound, and ultimately the stock market will end on a bullish note. He predicts the S&P 500 index could reach 7,700 points by the end of 2026. He believes that when the market tests the new Federal Reserve Chair, there could be a 15% to 20% correction, especially in the second half of the year. But this is not the end of the cycle, rather a buying opportunity.