As a typically quiet week for economic indicators unfolds, Wall Street’s attention pivots to the much-anticipated “Santa Rally.” Known for its tradition of buoying stocks in late December, this phenomenon has historically seen the S&P 500 rise 64 out of 96 years during the December 24–31 stretch, averaging an ascent of 0.85%.
However, the week began with the market grappling to bounce back from the Federal Reserve’s stern stance suggesting limited rate cuts in 2024. The excitement of a rally was clouded by market turbulence on Friday, leaving many to question if the “Santa Rally” will materialize this year. Investors face a complex scenario: balancing the Federal Reserve’s policies with looming uncertainties about new economic strategies as the Trump administration prepares to take office.
Amid these tensions, 2024 appears on track to be a banner year. The S&P 500 might replicate last year’s impressive 24% gain, with a promising two-year increase of 55%, marking its strongest performance since 1999. U.
S. stocks continue to outshine global indices, benefiting from robust economic foundations. In the corporate arena, Palantir Technologies has skyrocketed by 360%, surpassing Nvidia’s previous top performance, with a 175% gain.
Meanwhile, U.S. consumer confidence dipped, reflecting economic anxiety.
This drop, noted by the Conference Board, signals possible challenges in 2025, amid fears of sustained inflation and high-interest rates. Elsewhere, attention is d.
