Posts by Sound Planning Group Team

Stocks declined last week as tariff concerns and fears of an economic slowdown weighed on investor sentiment. February’s employment report showed weaker-than-expected job growth.

Stocks declined last week as tariff concerns and fears of an economic slowdown weighed on investor sentiment. February’s employment report showed weaker-than-expected job growth.

Markets ended the week lower, with both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posting losses. Inflation remained a concern, complicating the Federal Reserve’s ability to cut interest rates further. Consumer confidence plunged in February, jobless claims rose to a four-month high, adding to slowdown indicators.

Markets cooled down last week as weak guidance from Walmart heightened concerns about a potential slowdown. Existing home sales showed record-high prices for the month of January. Meanwhile, Q4 earnings remained broadly positive.

Stocks climbed last week despite hotter-than-expected inflation and softer retail sales, as investors took comfort in the apparent delay of additional tariffs. January CPI and PPI data reinforced concerns about persistent inflation, particularly in food and energy, raising expectations that the Fed may keep rates higher for longer.

Stocks fell last week as weaker-than-expected job growth and a sharp drop in consumer sentiment, driven by tariff-related inflation concerns, overshadowed a slight decline in the unemployment rate.

Markets declined last week amid concerns over China’s technological advancements and renewed tariff tensions. The Federal Reserve held rates steady in its January meeting, citing inflation risks, while GDP growth for Q4 came in at 2.3%, slightly below expectations. Consumer confidence weakened in January, and personal spending outpaced income growth, leading to a decline in the personal savings rate.

Last week, economic data was subdued as attention shifted to President Trump’s inauguration, executive orders, and Q4 earnings season, with the S&P 500 reaching new all-time highs.