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 as tech stocks struggled, but the market still posted strong weekly gains. The **Nasdaq** and **Dow Jones Industrial Average** also rose significantly, partly driven by investor optimism after **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?**

- **The Bull Market of the 2020s**: Since the COVID-19 crash in 2020, the stock market has seen huge swings. Low interest rates, tech growth, and government stimulus kept stocks rising for years.

- **Tech Dominance**: Companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia led the market for most of the decade.

- **Political Influence**: Markets often react to elections. Trump’s pro-business policies (tax cuts, deregulation) previously boosted stocks, while Biden’s focus on infrastructure and green energy shifted investments.

- **Recent Volatility**: In early 2025, markets were uncertain about inflation, interest rates, and global conflicts. Trump’s return brought back expectations of corporate tax cuts and relaxed regulations.

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## **2. General Public Opinion: Why Are Markets Up?**

Many investors and analysts see Trump’s presidency as good for stocks because:

- **Business-Friendly Policies**: Expected tax cuts could boost corporate profits.

- **Deregulation**: Fewer rules on banks, energy, and tech may help companies grow faster.

- **Strong Weekly Gains**: Despite Friday’s dip, the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow all rose over the week, showing confidence.

**Retail Investors (everyday traders)** are optimistic, hoping for another market boom like during Trump’s first term.

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## **3. Counterarguments: Why Some Are Skeptical**

Not everyone agrees that Trump’s return guarantees a strong market:

- **Tech Slump**: Big tech stocks (like Tesla, Meta) fell on Jan. 24, signaling possible overvaluation.

- **Trade Wars Risk**: Trump’s past tariffs hurt some industries—could it happen again?

- **Inflation Concerns**: If tax cuts lead to more spending, the Fed might keep interest rates high, hurting growth.

- **Political Uncertainty**: New policies could disrupt markets if they surprise investors.

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

### **Potential Outcomes:**

✅ **Short-Term Rally**: Stocks may keep rising if Trump’s policies boost confidence.

⚠️ **Volatility Ahead**: Trade wars, Fed decisions, or tech sell-offs could cause dips.

📉 **Sector Shifts**: Energy and finance stocks may rise, while tech could slow down.

### **Lessons Learned:**

- **Politics Moves Markets**: Elections and policies have immediate effects.

- **Diversify Investments**: Don’t bet everything on one sector (like tech).

- **Stay Cautious**: Big weekly gains are great, but markets can change fast.

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### **Final Thoughts**

The stock market had a strong week but ended Jan. 24 with a slight pullback. Trump’s return has excited investors, but risks remain. Whether this rally continues depends on policies, corporate earnings, and global events.

**What should you do?**

- Keep an eye on tech stocks—are they bouncing back or falling further?

- Watch for new tax or trade policies that could shift the market.

- Stay diversified to handle ups and downs.

Markets love certainty, but 2025 is just getting started—expect more twists ahead! 🚀📉

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