Markets kicked off 2026 with a risk-on tone as the S&P 500 advanced and the Russell 2000 powered to fresh records. Investors weighed a headline-heavy week - geopolitics, Washington policy signals, and a mixed jobs report - while cyclical leadership broadened beyond mega-cap tech.
Markets ended 2025 on a cautious note as thin holiday trading weighed on U.S. equities, despite another year of double-digit gains. With Fed policy, labor market trends, and productivity gains in focus, investors now turn their attention to the first major economic data of the new year.
Stocks found their footing as easing inflation and strong tech earnings helped offset valuation concerns. With rate cuts on the horizon, investors are looking toward 2026 with cautious optimism.
Markets wrapped up a volatile week as the Federal Reserve delivered another rate cut while signaling a slower pace ahead. With equities mixed, yields rising, and investors watching inflation and labor data closely, attention now turns to whether economic momentum can sustain a “Goldilocks” outcome into 2026.
Equities extended last week’s rebound as the S&P 500 moved back toward record highs and global markets improved ahead of the December Fed meeting. Bond yields climbed, crude oil rallied, and the labor market showed renewed signs of stress. Here’s what moved markets — and what to watch in the week ahead.
Markets finished the week with broad strength as investors embraced rising odds of a December Fed rate cut. Mega-caps, AI leaders, and chipmakers drove the rebound, helping major indices reclaim their 50-day moving averages. This week’s recap outlines the market action, key Fed commentary, economic data, and what’s on deck heading into December.