The so-called Santa Claus end of year started on Tuesday and it was not spectacular.
We have until this Friday (Jan. 3) for the seven days to indicate what next year has in store.
I tend to look more at what the whole month of January does to have an indication of what the market will do in the New Year.
Most forecasts see the S&P 500 stock-index climbing from its current position near 6000 to 6500 to 7000.
This is based on the belief that corporate earnings will be sufficient enough to boost the markets next year.
It does not appear that the Fed is going to drop rates as far or as fast as many want.
Mortgage rates have not budged in spite of the multiple rate cuts this year.
In my neck of the woods, it has been hard to sell property this year.
While the secondary housing market might have stalled, new building has not taken off either.
I suppose there will be a honeymoon period with the new administration, but there is far too much that will have to be dealt with sooner than later.
Inflation has slowed, but it still is hurting the budgets of the middle class.
It also means that there are more and more retailers closing their doors.
I know we are looking forward to things being bigger and better in the New Year, but the reality to me is that I would take any gain at all after a 24% gain in the S&P in 2024.
So I am just going to kick back and enjoy this Holiday season while I can.
The future will come far too fast and furious.
