The Russell 2000 Index moved closer to its all-time high after rising 0.6% in the latest session, underscoring renewed strength in small-cap equities. Investors rotated toward domestically focused companies amid expectations that a softer monetary policy path could support growth-sensitive names. Analysts observed increasing breadth in the small-cap universe, with financials, industrials, and consumer discretionary sectors contributing meaningfully to the momentum. The move also reflects improving risk appetite after weeks of volatility across major indices, with traders assessing whether small-caps can maintain leadership into the next quarter.