
Weekly Market Recap: Markets Drop as Trade Tensions Rise & Inflation Concerns Return
Markets kicked off March with sharp declines as geopolitical tensions, escalating U.S.-China trade tariffs, and mixed economic data weighed on investor sentiment. The S&P 500 fell 3.06%, while the Nasdaq tumbled 3.43%, with small caps taking the hardest hit. Despite this, international markets rallied, fueled by China’s new economic stimulus measures and a reaffirmed 5% growth target. Meanwhile, bond yields climbed, reflecting concerns over slowing economic growth, while the Fed remains poised for three rate cuts in 2025. Inflation worries resurfaced in the services sector, while labor market data showed resilience, with 151,000 jobs added in February. With market volatility on the rise and inflation data due this week, investors will closely monitor the Federal Reserve’s next move. Read the full Weekly Market Recap for insights on stocks, bonds, commodities, and economic trends shaping the financial landscape.