The S&P 500 has continued its upward trajectory despite persistent bearish narratives, gaining 34% over the past 22 months as tracked by $VOO. The index has consistently shrugged off alarmist concerns ranging from AI-related fears to Federal Reserve rate hikes. Market performance mirrors a "Road Runner" dynamic where bullish momentum repeatedly eludes doomsday predictions. Despite ongoing skepticism and negative sentiment cycles, the benchmark index has maintained its advance through multiple waves of bearish commentary.