This roundup of top financial news for the week presented by Matt Glova and the LifeTime Asset Management team:
Weekly Market Update, January 13, 2025
The Fed and consumers noted increased concerns regarding inflation. A strong ISM Services index and employment report revealed that the economy continued to show strength despite the Fed issuing multiple rate cuts in the final four months of 2024. Inflation concerns caused small-caps and growth stocks to sell off as investors expect the Fed to do less in 2025. Bonds also sold off on fresh inflation concerns.
Click here to read the full weekly market report published January 13, 2025.
Weekly Market Update, January 6, 2025
We saw mostly positive data across multiple industries during the holiday-shortened week. Construction spending, which remained flat in November, is worth watching. Equity markets remained risk-averse to start the year amid questions on policy and inflation. The yield curve continued to steepen after the Federal Reserve (Fed) indicated it would keep rates elevated in 2025.
Click here to read the full weekly market report published January 6, 2025.
Quarter-End Market Update, December 31, 2024
Quick Highlights:
1. Mixed Month for Markets — December was a mixed month for equity markets.
2. Bonds Fall as Federal Reserve Updates Guidance— Rising interest rates caused bond prices to fall at year-end.
3. Positive Economic Updates — The economic updates released in December showed continued economic growth.
4. Risks to Monitor — Markets face a number of risks both domestically and abroad.
5. Positive Outlook for the New Year — We believe the most likely path forward is for continued market appreciation and economic growth.
Click here to read the full monthly market report published December 31, 2024.