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 Strong Weekly Gains**

On January 24, 2025, the U.S. stock market had a mixed day. The **S&P 500** closed slightly below its record high due to a slump in tech stocks, but all three major indexes—**the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones**—posted big weekly gains. This surge followed **Donald Trump’s return to the White House**, which sparked optimism among investors about potential policy changes.

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

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## **Historical Background: How We Got Here**

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

- **Inflation & Rate Hikes (2022-2024):** The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to fight inflation, causing market volatility. Tech stocks, which thrived in low-rate environments, took a hit.

- **Election Impact (2024):** Trump’s victory in November 2024 led to expectations of **tax cuts, deregulation, and pro-business policies**, boosting market confidence.

- **January 2025 Rally:** Markets rose in anticipation of Trump’s policies, but tech stocks lagged due to concerns over stricter trade and immigration rules affecting Silicon Valley.

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## **Public Opinion: Why Are People Optimistic?**

Many investors and analysts believe Trump’s return will help the market because:

✅ **Potential Tax Cuts:** Trump has promised lower corporate taxes, which could boost profits.

✅ **Deregulation:** Fewer business restrictions may help sectors like energy and finance.

✅ **Stronger Economy:** Some expect faster GDP growth under Trump’s policies.

However, not everyone is celebrating.

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

⚠️ **Tech Sector Worries:** Stricter immigration policies could hurt Silicon Valley’s talent pool. Trade wars with China may also harm tech companies reliant on global supply chains.

⚠️ **Market Overreaction:** Some analysts warn that the rally is based on speculation, not concrete policy changes yet.

⚠️ **Debt Concerns:** Trump’s tax cuts could increase the national debt, leading to long-term economic risks.

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

1. **Short-Term Gains:** Markets may keep rising if Trump delivers on pro-business promises.

2. **Tech Volatility:** The tech sector could underperform if trade tensions rise or hiring becomes harder.

3. **Policy Watch:** Investors will closely watch Trump’s first 100 days for signs of tax reforms, trade deals, and Fed appointments.

4. **Risk of Correction:** If policies disappoint, a market pullback is possible.

### **Key Takeaways:**

- The market is reacting to **political change**, not just economic data.

- Tech stocks are struggling, but other sectors (energy, banking) may benefit.

- Investors should stay cautious—big rallies can reverse if expectations aren’t met.

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### **Final Thought**

While the S&P 500 didn’t hit a new record on January 24, the overall trend remains positive. Trump’s return has injected optimism, but risks remain. As always, the stock market rewards patience—and a close eye on policy changes.

Would you bet on a continued rally, or is a correction coming? Only time will tell. 🚀📉

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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