Stock Market on Jan. 24, 2025: S&P 500 ends below record high as tech slumps, but posts big weekly gain along with Nasdaq and Dow after Trump's return to White House - MarketWatch

Stock Market on Jan. 24, 2025: S&P 500 ends below record high as tech slumps, but posts big weekly gain along with Nasdaq and Dow after Trump's return to White House - MarketWatch


# **Stock Market Update: Jan. 24, 2025 – S&P 500 Ends Below Record High as Tech Slumps, But Posts Big Weekly Gains**

On January 24, 2025, the **S&P 500 closed slightly below its all-time high**, dragged down by a slump in tech stocks. However, the market still posted strong weekly gains, with the **Nasdaq and Dow Jones Industrial Average also rising** following former President Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

Let’s break down what happened, why it matters, and what people are saying.

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## **1. Historical Background: How Did We Get Here?**

- **Post-Pandemic Recovery (2020-2024):** After the COVID-19 crash in 2020, markets rebounded sharply due to stimulus packages, low interest rates, and a tech boom.

- **Inflation & Rate Hikes (2022-2024):** The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to combat inflation, causing market volatility.

- **Election Impact (2024):** Trump’s victory in the 2024 election brought expectations of deregulation, tax cuts, and pro-business policies, boosting investor confidence.

- **Tech Sector Volatility:** Big tech stocks (like Apple, Amazon, and Tesla) have been sensitive to interest rates and policy changes, leading to recent declines.

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## **2. General Public Opinion: Why Are Markets Reacting This Way?**

### **Bullish Views (Optimistic Investors)**

- **Trump’s Pro-Business Policies:** Investors expect tax cuts, reduced regulations, and stronger corporate earnings.

- **Strong Weekly Gains:** Despite the tech dip, the overall market is up, suggesting broader economic strength.

- **Resilient Economy:** Low unemployment and steady GDP growth support market optimism.

### **Bearish Concerns (Cautious Investors)**

- **Tech Slump:** High-growth tech stocks are struggling due to rising bond yields and profit-taking.

- **Geopolitical Risks:** Trade tensions (especially with China) could resurface under Trump’s policies.

- **Overvaluation Fears:** Some analysts warn that stocks are too expensive and due for a correction.

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## **3. Counterarguments: Is the Market Rally Sustainable?**

### **Supporters of the Rally Argue:**

✅ **Corporate Earnings Are Strong** – Many companies are still reporting solid profits.

✅ **Policy Certainty** – Trump’s return reduces political uncertainty for businesses.

✅ **Historical Trends** – Markets tend to rise in election years with unified government control.

### **Critics Warn:**

⚠️ **Tech Weakness Could Spread** – If big tech keeps falling, it could drag down the whole market.

⚠️ **Interest Rate Risks** – The Fed may keep rates high longer than expected, hurting growth stocks.

⚠️ **Trade Wars 2.0?** – Trump’s tough stance on China could disrupt global markets.

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## **4. Implications: What Does This Mean for Investors?**

### **Short-Term Outlook:**

- **Volatility Ahead:** Expect more ups and downs as markets digest policy changes.

- **Tech Caution:** Investors may shift from high-growth tech to value stocks (banks, energy, industrials).

### **Long-Term Lessons:**

- **Diversification Matters** – Don’t put all your money in one sector (like tech).

- **Policy-Driven Markets** – Political shifts can have big impacts—stay informed.

- **Don’t Panic Over Daily Moves** – Weekly gains show resilience despite daily dips.

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### **Final Thought**

While the S&P 500 missed a new record on January 24, the overall trend remains positive. Investors should **stay balanced, watch policy changes, and avoid emotional decisions** in a shifting market.

Would you buy the dip in tech or play it safe? Let us know your thoughts! 🚀📉

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Stock Market on Jan. 24, 2025: S&P 500 ends below record high as tech slumps, but posts big weekly gain along with Nasdaq and Dow after Trump's return to White House - MarketWatch