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 **S&P 500** closed slightly below its all-time high as **tech stocks struggled**, but the market still posted **big weekly gains**—along with the **Nasdaq and Dow**—following **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 We Got Here**
- **The Trump Effect (2016-2020):** During Trump’s first term, markets surged due to **tax cuts, deregulation, and strong corporate earnings**. However, his trade wars and unpredictable policies also caused volatility.
- **Biden Years (2020-2024):** Under Biden, markets saw **stimulus-driven growth**, but inflation and rising interest rates led to **big swings**, especially in tech.
- **2024 Election Impact:** Trump’s victory in November 2024 sparked a **market rally**, with investors expecting **business-friendly policies** (lower taxes, lighter regulations).
**This Week’s Action:**
- **Tech stocks slumped** due to concerns over **higher interest rates** and **valuation worries**.
- **Overall markets still rose for the week**—fueled by optimism around Trump’s economic plans.
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## **2. General Public Opinion: What People Are Saying**
### **Bullish Views (Optimistic Investors)**
- **"Markets love stability"** – Investors believe Trump’s policies will boost corporate profits.
- **"Deregulation helps businesses"** – Expectation of fewer restrictions on banks, energy, and tech.
- **"Tax cuts could return"** – Potential for lower corporate taxes, which could lift stock prices.
### **Bearish Views (Cautious Investors)**
- **"Tech is overvalued"** – Some worry that big tech stocks (like Apple, Nvidia) are too expensive.
- **"Trade wars could return"** – Trump’s history of tariffs on China could hurt global markets.
- **"Political uncertainty remains"** – His presidency could bring more market swings.
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## **3. Counterarguments: Why Some Disagree**
### **"The Rally Won’t Last"**
- Critics argue that **markets are too optimistic** and ignoring risks like:
- **Recession fears** (if interest rates stay high).
- **Geopolitical tensions** (U.S.-China relations, wars in Europe/Middle East).
- **Inflation concerns** (if Trump’s policies increase spending without controlling prices).
### **"Tech Slump is a Warning Sign"**
- Big tech companies (Amazon, Google, Meta) have driven market gains for years.
- If they keep falling, the **entire market could weaken**.
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## **4. Implications: What This Means for the Future**
### **Potential Outcomes**
✅ **Short-Term Boost:** Markets may keep rising if Trump delivers on pro-business policies.
⚠️ **Long-Term Risks:** Trade wars, inflation, or political instability could reverse gains.
📉 **Tech Sector Watch:** If tech keeps falling, it could drag down the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.
### **Lessons Learned**
- **Markets react quickly to political changes** – Elections have immediate impacts.
- **Tech is still a key driver** – Its performance affects the whole market.
- **Volatility is normal** – Big swings happen, so long-term investors should stay patient.
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## **Final Thoughts**
While the **S&P 500 dipped slightly on Jan. 24**, the overall trend remains **positive** after Trump’s return. However, risks like **tech weakness, inflation, and global tensions** could shape the market’s direction in 2025.
**Key Takeaway:** Stay informed, diversify investments, and don’t panic over short-term moves.
Would you like a deeper dive into any specific part? Let me know! 🚀
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