The S&P 500 starts today on a four-day losing streak ahead of an ECB rate decision and U.S. CPI. Analysts expect a 0.3% headline inflation rise. FedEx and Nike report later today.
As Congress wraps up for 2025, all eyes are on whether lawmakers will extend health-insurance subsidies—the issue at the heart of the 43-day government shutdown earlier this year.
Investors are navigating not just uncertainty, but an unstable environment influenced by tariffs and inflation, among other factors. While volatility may increase, there is likely room for another solid year in 2026, especially for fixed income and international stocks.
The Federal Reserve lowered its policy interest rate by 25 basis points, as widely expected. However, Fed Chairman Powell hinted at a pause ahead, and there were several dissents.
International stocks could be poised for another strong year in 2026 due to accelerating global growth, attractive valuations and the potential for dollar weakness.
We believe the macro environment will continue to be unstable given policy crosscurrents and a wobbly labor market, but stocks can likely churn higher given a firmer earnings backdrop.
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