The Fed has entered the second year of its rate-cutting cycle—so what does history tell us about stock market performance from here? In this week’s Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: How the S&P 500 has historically performed in year two of rate-cutting cycles. Why the outlook for 2026 depends heavily on avoiding a recession. The mix of tailwinds (AI, productivity, fiscal stimulus) and headwinds (deficit spending, job market risks, tariff challenges) shaping the road ahead. LPL Research suggests growth could continue, but uncertainty always remains. The key? Control what you can control—stay diversified and stick to your plan for true financial independence.