A growing number of economists on Wall Street are expressing optimism about the U.S. economy, with Bank of America leading the way. According to the bank's latest report, U.S. growth in 2026 may surpass consensus projections and arrive sooner than expected. Bank of America economist Aditya Bhave predicts an average GDP growth rate of 2.8% for 2026, significantly higher than the market expectation of approximately 2.1%. The growth is anticipated to be front-loaded, with stronger momentum anticipated in the first half of the year. A driving factor behind this projection is the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which could potentially provide $135–$140 billion in consumer stimulus during tax season. This translates to over $1,000 per household on average, with the funds expected to be disbursed between February and April, coinciding with peak tax refund season. The OBBBA is expected to have a more significant impact than initially predicted.