NYSE Traders
Traders work on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, U.S., March 2, 2020.
  • The stock market has slumped in August and September, but Ned Davis Research says there is reason for optimism.
  • Sentiment is nearing "extremely pessimistic levels," which could support a year-end rally.
  • The current market pullback is coming at a seasonally weak time of year, which means upside remains.

After a strong start to 2023, stocks have slumped over the last two months — but that doesn't mean the home stretch of the year can't see strong gains.