While 2026 is now well underway, investors are still trying to make sense of a market marked by volatility, political uncertainty and big questions about what comes next.

Christopher Marangi, of Gabelli Funds, says making big predictions is tough, but there are plenty of reasons to be hopeful about the broader economy.

"I don't know I'd call it rosy, but we're cautiously optimistic for the year," he says. "In general, there's an enormous amount of fiscal stimulus, some of the tax cuts which are coming into play, as well as some other economic stimulus that should provide a tailwind to the broader economy."

Marangi says the biggest mistake everyday investors can make is to try to outsmart the market or chase hot trends right now.

Instead, he stresses diversification and sticking with assets that produce cash flow.

"You don't put all your eggs in any particular basket," he says.

One area he is particularly bullish on right now is sports and live entertainment, which he says has held up -even as other parts of the economy face pressure.

This led Gabelli to launch a new ETF this year, giving everyday investors a way to own pieces of sports teams, leagues and businesses that support live events.

"One area that's not changing, the need for togetherness, the preference for experiences over things," he says. If you have a consumer issue you want Tara Rosenblum to look into, you can reach her by clicking here.