Stock markets are defying expectations this year, with the S&P 500 climbing nearly 15 percent amid rising oil costs and a surge in US Treasury bond sales. The strong performance contrasts with typical economic signals, as higher energy prices and increased government borrowing might usually weigh on investor confidence. Analysts are closely watching whether this rally can sustain momentum or if underlying pressures will eventually slow gains. The disconnect between market gains and fundamental economic factors raises questions about what’s driving the bullish trend.
The benchmark S&P 500 is up 14 percent this year despite elevated oil prices and US government debt sell-off.
