New Year Brings New Directions Among Global Equities

The year 2023 has concluded, marking the end of the stock market's impressive winning streak.

"Looking ahead to 2024, we identify two predominant factors shaping performance: Federal Reserve interest-rate decisions and the trajectory of the economy. Encouragingly, we anticipate both to generally favour positive outcomes this year. "

The first trading week of 2024 witnessed a decline in stocks, accompanied by an increase in interest rates, putting an end to the nine-week winning streak of the S&P 500. Given the significant upward surge over the past few months, it is understandable that the markets are now pausing for a breath.