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**

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 broader market posted strong weekly gains, with the **Nasdaq and Dow Jones Industrial Average also rising sharply**. The rally was fueled by optimism after **Donald Trump’s return to the White House**, as investors bet on pro-business policies.

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 Boom (2020-2024):** After the COVID-19 crash in 2020, markets surged due to stimulus, low interest rates, and tech growth.

- **Inflation & Rate Hikes (2022-2024):** The Fed raised rates to fight inflation, causing market volatility.

- **Election Impact (2024):** Trump’s victory brought expectations of tax cuts, deregulation, and trade policies favoring U.S. businesses.

- **Tech’s Rollercoaster:** Big tech stocks (like Apple, Amazon, and Tesla) soared for years but faced recent pressure due to high valuations and regulatory concerns.

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

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

- **Pro-Business Policies:** Trump’s return is seen as good for stocks—lower taxes and fewer regulations could boost profits.

- **Strong Weekly Gains:** Despite the dip, markets had a big week, suggesting confidence in the economy.

- **Tech Correction Healthy:** Some believe the tech slump is normal after years of huge gains.

### **Bearish Views (Cautious Investors)**

- **Tech Weakness Worries:** If big tech keeps falling, it could drag down the whole market.

- **Political Uncertainty:** Trump’s policies (like trade wars) could backfire and hurt markets later.

- **Overvaluation Fears:** Some think stocks are too expensive and due for a bigger drop.

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## **Counterarguments: Is the Rally Sustainable?**

### **Yes, Because…**

- Corporate earnings are still strong.

- The Fed may cut rates if inflation cools further.

- Trump’s policies could boost manufacturing and energy stocks.

### **No, Because…**

- Geopolitical risks (like U.S.-China tensions) could disrupt trade.

- If tech keeps falling, investor sentiment could sour.

- High debt levels could make the economy vulnerable.

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

### **Short-Term (Next Few Months)**

- More volatility as markets adjust to new policies.

- Tech may stay under pressure if interest rates don’t fall.

- Cyclical stocks (banks, energy, industrials) could rise on economic optimism.

### **Long-Term (Next Few Years)**

- If Trump’s policies boost growth, stocks could keep climbing.

- However, trade wars or inflation returning could spark a downturn.

- Investors should diversify to manage risks.

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## **Final Thoughts**

The market’s mixed performance on **Jan. 24, 2025** shows both **hope and caution**. While the weekly gains are encouraging, the tech slump reminds us that no rally lasts forever.

### **Key Takeaways:**

✅ **Markets are reacting to political changes** – Trump’s return has boosted confidence.

⚠️ **Tech stocks are struggling** – A sign of rotation, or a warning sign?

📈 **Long-term investors should stay diversified** – Don’t bet everything on one sector.

What do you think? Will the rally continue, or is a bigger correction coming? Let us know in the comments!

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*Disclaimer: This is not financial advice. Always do your own research before investing.*

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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