Signals & Noise: Why small & mid-caps are leading the 2026 market rally – and what’s next

Welcome to Signals and Noise, where BofA Global Research strategists from around the globe offer a shorter take on market matters as part of Global Research Unlocked. Today, we focus on the best performing size segment of the US equity market this year, US small and mid-caps, and how we're thinking about them today.   You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life.   "Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. ©2026 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.