US equity markets wrapped up the first half of 2026 on a positive note, with major indices closing near their all-time highs.

The S&P 500 rose 0.8% and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 1% on Wednesday, extending a rally driven largely by technology stocks.

The session marked a symbolic milestone for investors, who are now turning their attention to corporate fundamentals as the second half begins.

According to Freedom24, a key broker in the region, the market’s trajectory is shifting.

Investors are increasingly prioritizing fundamental analysis over pure momentum plays.

This pivot suggests that while the broad-based rally has been robust, traders are becoming more selective, scrutinizing earnings quality and valuation metrics as they position portfolios for the remainder of the year.