Hey, Ross here:
If you’ve read this newsletter for any length of time, then you know this:
Where there are divergences there are opportunities.
So today, let’s look at a major divergence happening right now.
Chart of the Day
The first chart is from Gallup, and it shows Americans’ view of economic conditions in the country.
73% of respondents say the economy is getting worse, with only 23% saying it’s getting better.
Given the oil shock and inflation – not to mention the job market – this isn’t surprising.
But here’s what’s surprising…
Gallup showing that 57% of respondents believe that investing in the stock market is a BAD idea right now.
Even though we’re back at near all-time highs…
Even though corporate profit margins are at multi-year highs….
And even though 84% of S&P 500 companies have reported earnings above estimates.
(despite analysts having also steadily increased earnings estimates in 2026).
In short, the public still feels terrible…
Even as the market keeps proving otherwise.
That’s a major divergence.
Consumers are gloomy. Retail is skeptical.
But stocks are back near highs, margins are strong, and earnings keep coming in better than expected.
I explain what that means below.
Insight of the Day
Consumers and retail will likely get left behind again.
This has happened for decades – and will keep happening over and over again.
The public almost never feels good near the bottom.
And it usually still doesn’t feel good when the next bull move is already underway.
Why?
Because most people do not invest based on price action, positioning, or earnings.
They invest based on how things feel.
And right now, things still feel bad, with inflation spiking, the weak job market, and the uncertain headlines.
So even with stocks back near highs, a lot of regular investors still don’t trust the move.
That’s how people get left behind.
They wait for the economy to feel better…
They wait for the headlines to calm down…
They wait for the rally to feel “safe.”
But by then, the easy money has usually already been made.
However, there’s one group that’s almost always ahead of that shift – who are always early to the game.
The corporate insiders…
The people closest to the business…
The execs who know their own numbers better than any analyst ever could.
I’m going to share more on following these insiders tomorrow morning…
So keep a look out for that.
Customer Story of the Day
“I’m not someone that usually leaves reviews, however, if I could give more stars I absolutely would!
I am currently enrolled in two of their courses. I knew NOTHING about the stock market when I joined back in March after seeing Ross on The Cartier Family YouTube Channel.
Ross and Jean have rather quickly taught me how to navigate the market. They are so patient with ‘newbies’ like me and have eagerly answered my questions with demonstrations.
I would highly recommend this down to earth and knowledgeable team to anyone that is on the fence about joining. Just take the leap and watch your wallet grow!”
Embrace the surge,
Ross Givens
Editor, Stock Surge Daily
