Today, U.S. stock indexes are down, ending a successful year of gains. The S&P 500 and Dow Jones are falling, while Nasdaq is also down.
Energy stocks like Exxon Mobil and Chevron are doing well, but technology stocks like Nvidia and Apple are dropping.
Bond yields and crude oil prices are mixed. In Europe, indexes are mostly up. Asian markets have mixed results.
A strong economy, consumer spending, and job market have driven U.S. market gains this year. Companies like Nvidia and Super Micro Computer have seen prices soar.
The Federal Reserve’s actions, including interest rate cuts, have impacted the market. Inflation concerns remain high.
Bitcoin and gold have also had a great year. Markets will close for New Year’s Day, with important economic updates coming later in the week.
Finally, the NYSE and Nasdaq will close on Jan. 9 to honor the late former President Jimmy Carter.
Vocabulary List:
- Indexes /ˈɪnˌdɛksəz/ (noun): Statistical measures that reflect the performance of a group of stocks or markets.
- Yields /jiːldz/ (noun): The income returned on an investment often expressed as a percentage.
- Crude /kruːd/ (adjective): In a raw or unrefined state often referring to oil.
- Inflation /ɪnˈfleɪʃən/ (noun): The rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises eroding purchasing power.
- Impact /ˈɪm.pækt/ (verb): To have a strong effect on someone or something.
- Gains /ɡeɪnz/ (noun): An increase in wealth or resources typically referring to profits in financial contexts.
