Volatility returned last week due to trade tensions and a sudden geopolitical shock, even though economic data showed moderating growth and lower inflation.
Investors digested a fragile U.S.–China trade truce, a steady but slowing labor market, and an escalation in the Israel–Iran conflict that sent safe-haven assets soaring. In this commentary, we break down the key developments, from Washington to the Middle East, and discuss what they mean for markets, interest rates, and long-term investors.
Market Commentary 11/26/24
Last week the financial markets remained strong, signaling a continuation of bullish sentiment among investors.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at a record high, gaining nearly 2% for the week. The gains were driven by strong performance across multiple sectors including technology, industrials, and healthcare.
The S&P 500 increased as well with six of the eleven market sectors gaining for the week, with technology and consumer staples leading the way. Investor optimism was best represented in the small call index, the Russell 2000, which gained 4.7% for the week.
Last week U.S. Treasury yields rose, driven by slightly higher-than-expected inflation data and hawkish comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The 10-year Treasury yield increased by 14 basis points to 4.44%, while the 2-year yield also experienced a slight increase.
The bond market is navigating a complex landscape of inflationary pressures, geopolitical uncertainties, and expectations of future Federal Reserve rate cuts, which are now seen as less aggressive than previously anticipated.
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Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network did not assist in the preparation of this report, and its accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. The opinions expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network or its affiliates. The material has been prepared or is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. Additional information is available upon request.
S&P 500 Index: The S&P 500 Index consists of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market value weighted index with each stock’s weight in the Index proportionate to its market value.
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Volatility returned last week due to trade tensions and a sudden geopolitical shock, even though economic data showed moderating growth and lower inflation.
Investors digested a fragile U.S.–China trade truce, a steady but slowing labor market, and an escalation in the Israel–Iran conflict that sent safe-haven assets soaring. In this commentary, we break down the key developments, from Washington to the Middle East, and discuss what they mean for markets, interest rates, and long-term investors.