Citigroup strategist raises year-end target for S&P 500 index to 8100 points.

The Citigroup strategist stated that profit growth driven by artificial intelligence will push the S&P 500 index to new highs, with an expected 10% upside potential within the year. Led by Scott Kronat, the strategy team raised the S&P 500 index target from 7700 points to 8100 points, based on improved profit expectations. The team predicts that earnings per share for the index's components will rise to $350 in 2026 and reach $400 in 2027. Analysts point out that investors are already familiar with the infrastructure development of artificial intelligence and its fundamental impact. The weight of growth stocks in index earnings has increased from 15% 30 years ago to 45% now. The team forecasts that corporate earnings in future quarters will exceed expectations, and the earnings structure of the index shows unique industry sector distribution characteristics.