Ahead of the New York market open on August 27, 2025, cross-asset models projected a slight decline in the S&P 500 index, with forecasts indicating losses between 0.16% and 0.21%. Despite these short-term bearish signals, the S&P 500 has outperformed global risk sentiment indicators over the past 20 days, exceeding model expectations by approximately 2.7%. Signals from foreign exchange and interest rates showed modest bullish tendencies, while global equities remained the least optimistic. Market analysts highlight that over 75% of stocks in three of the four major cyclical sectors are trading above their 200-day moving averages, a pattern historically associated with strong gains in the subsequent year. Additionally, a notable increase in the percentage of S&P 500 companies reporting positive three-month forward revenue and earnings changes suggests continued strength for the index. Although global equities outside the U.S. have lagged behind, recent breakouts and key drivers point to potential further upside, despite prevailing investor skepticism.