January 1, 2024 | Oil prices are easing off their long-term trends.
Why It Matters: Historically, lower energy costs is good news for the U.S. stock market. Lower energy prices = lower input costs. Which can translate to increased profits.
Source: Gavekal
...January 1, 2024 | This season’s ‘Santa Claus Rally’ marks the eighth straight, as markets bounced back after a tough 3rd Quarter 2023.
Why It Matters: The rally hinges on expectations of Fed rate cuts in 2024. This optimism is delicate; a shift in Fed policy could reverse markets.
Source: dailychartbook
...December 18, 2023 | Expectations of cuts have nudged down interest rates, driving mortgage rates to an 8-month low.
Why It Matters: It’s key to watch if this mortgage rate dip will reignite the housing market, enticing buyers back into the fray.
Source: dailychartbook
...December 18, 2023 | Inflation shows a cooling trend with recent figures aligning with subdued expectations.
Why It Matters: Inflation is approaching the Fed’s +2% goal, and opens the door for potential rate cuts, providing the economy a much-needed respite.
Source: Source Financial Advisors
...December 18, 2023 | Stocks moved higher as the Fed adjusts its outlook, now expecting three (3) rate cuts in 2024.
Why It Matters: Markets are factoring in these additional forecasted cuts, hinting at the sunset of the high-interest era, a transition cheered by investors.
Source: SoberLook
...December 11, 2023 | Gold’s rally breaches the $2,000 threshold.
Why It Matters: This often mirrors investor unease with economic stability and inflation. Yet, it’s key to note central banks’ hefty gold buying might be exaggerating to an extent.
Source: Dailychartbook, Source Financial Advisors
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