S&P 500 Bull Market Marked Four-Year Anniversary

Investors are weighing record corporate margins as the bull market hits four years of growth.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Stock Markets

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring a monolithic, tiered stone structure, representing steady economic growth. — The S&P 500 index reached its four-year anniversary on October 13, marking a 113% gain driven by record corporate profit margins. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The S&P 500 cyclical bull market officially reached its four-year anniversary on October 13, 2026. This period of expansion has seen the index rise 113% in nominal terms since its low point on October 13, 2022.

Why it matters

Sustained corporate profit growth has prevented a return to bear market conditions, helping maintain investor confidence. Current trends are largely driven by corporate profit margins and technological breakthroughs.

Since October 13, 2022, the S&P 500 index rose 113% in nominal terms, while inflation-adjusted gains reached 93%. Investors currently pay 19 times forward earnings for this growth, supported by historic peak corporate profit margins of 17.4%.

The players

Jurrien Timmer

An investment analyst who projected that the S&P 500 index could surpass the 8,000 threshold.

The details

Market participants often manage exposure through a 60/20/20 asset allocation framework, which balances equities and other assets to navigate these cycles. Corporate profit margins of 17.4% serve as a key engine for market gains, with third-quarter earnings growth projected to hit 25% and potentially reaching up to 35%. Sustained growth in these margins has been the primary factor in avoiding a downturn since the bull market began.

October 13, 2022: The cyclical bull market reached its low point.
October 13, 2026: The cyclical bull market reached its four-year anniversary.
Q3 2026: Third-quarter earnings season commenced.

Money Landscape

The current bull market expansion is measured against the 2022 S&P 500 market low, which serves as the cycle baseline for recovery. Ongoing gains mark a period of consistent growth that distinguishes this era from previous bear market cycles.

Investors should review their 60/20/20 asset allocation framework to ensure it remains aligned with their personal risk tolerance. Always consult a qualified financial professional before adjusting your portfolio based on index performance projections.

The takeaway

The market has shown consistent gains, but performance remains tied to corporate profit margins and earnings reports. Keep an eye on quarterly earnings releases as a signal for the sustainability of these growth trends.