Here's an interesting take on where equities might be headed next year. Whether the Federal Reserve decides to slash rates or hold steady, there's a compelling case that stock markets could still push higher through 2026.

The logic? We're potentially looking at a scenario where monetary policy becomes less of a headwind regardless of the path chosen. If cuts materialize, that's obviously liquidity-positive for risk assets. But even if the Fed stays put, markets might've already priced in the pain, and corporate earnings could carry the load instead.

What makes this view worth considering is how it challenges the binary thinking that's dominated trading desks lately. Too many folks are anchored to "cuts good, no cuts bad" - but the reality's messier. Valuations have compressed, sentiment's been wrung out in certain sectors, and there's dry powder waiting on sidelines.

For those watching crypto correlation with traditional markets, this matters. Bitcoin and altcoins have historically tracked equity risk appetite during macro pivot points. A sustained stock rally could provide the backdrop for digital assets to catch a bid, especially if it's driven by growth expectations rather than just rate speculation.

Not saying it's guaranteed - black swans exist and geopolitical wildcards remain. But the setup feels less doom-and-gloom than the permabears want you to believe. 2026 might surprise people who've been conditioned to expect the worst.