The risk-reward is quite good for stocks now, says Fundstrat's Tom Lee

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  April 06, 2026 at 11:04  |  6:55  |  CNBC

Summary

  • Tom Lee argues the risk-reward for stocks is now quite favorable, with 90-95% of war-related weakness already priced in.
  • Historical analysis of seven major wars shows stock markets typically bottom within the first 10% of the conflict's duration, suggesting the March decline was the bulk of the adjustment.
  • If the Iran war ends, the market is "spring-loaded" for an explosive rally due to pent-up optimism and the shift from crisis focus to opportunity.
  • Wartime defense spending provides significant economic stimulus, estimated at $30-100 billion per month, outweighing the consumer hit from higher oil prices (every $10 in oil costs about $4-5 billion monthly).
  • Inflation is a concern but viewed as a shock rather than a sustained episode if the war is short; the Fed is unlikely to cut rates soon.
  • The strong jobs report has alleviated recession fears, supporting the economic outlook despite war uncertainties.
  • Lee maintains a year-end S&P 500 target of 7700, implying substantial upside from current levels around 6580.
  • Key uncertainties include the war's duration and whether inflation expectations become unanchored, which could lead to higher rates and asset price drops.
  • Oil stocks are noted as performing well, but no detailed thesis or specific companies are discussed.
  • Cryptocurrency is mentioned as "fine," with no further analysis or directional view.
Trade Ideas
Tom Lee Managing Partner and Head of Research, Fundstrat 1:37
Tom Lee explicitly stated "the risk-reward is quite good for stocks," that 90-95% of the war-related weakness is behind us, and he has a year-end S&P 500 target of 7700. Historical war events show markets bottom early in conflicts; current wartime spending boosts the economy; and the market has likely adjusted to most negatives. Long direction due to attractive risk-reward, historical precedent, economic stimulus from defense spending, and significant upside to the 7700 target. Prolongation of the Iran war or a sustained increase in inflation expectations that leads to tighter monetary policy and lower asset prices.
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This CNBC video, published April 06, 2026, features Tom Lee discussing SPY. 1 trade idea extracted by AI with direction and confidence scoring.

Speakers: Tom Lee  · Tickers: SPY