January 2025 Market Commentary
Despite a soft December, U.S. equity markets posted exceptional results for the second consecutive year. Once again, stock market returns exceeded consensus expectations. Results for 2024 were similar to 2023 with the Magnificent Seven stocks driving most of the S&P 500 Index’s results. The Fed started an interest rate easing cycle, but inflation concerns pushed yields higher. 2025 looks like a banner year for earnings growth but risks should not be ignored.