The stock market ended the year with positive momentum, despite a spell of volatility in the 4th Quarter following reports of monthly inflation rising at a pace not seen in decades. Strong corporate earnings helped sustain the equity rally, although many firms struggled with ongoing supply chain issues and labor…
Stock markets hit some headwinds in the 3rd Quarter after rising earlier in the summer. Strong reports on economic growth and the return of business activity were countered by concerns over inflation and uncertainty in global markets, particularly China. The S&P 500 managed a small gain of 0.6% for Q3.…
For much of the 2nd Quarter markets focused on the Federal Reserve, wondering how the central bank would respond to rising inflationary pressures throughout the U.S. economy. Stock performance wavered over the three-month period but ended the quarter up 8.5%. Interest rates retreated from last quarter’s post-COVID peak to settle…
Rising interest rates and inflation concerns weighed on investors in Q1, as a fresh injection of government stimulus and increasing vaccination rates boost optimism for economic growth. Energy and financial stocks continue to shine, while tech shares took a breather after several quarters of strong performance.