Prepare for Market Moves: Key Insights Before the Stock Market Takes a Break

As we approach the end of 2024, investors are gearing up for the final trading day before the New Year’s Day holiday, which will see both stock and bond markets shuttered. Here are the crucial insights you need before the market closes its doors.

1. Last Trading Day of 2024; Markets Will Be Closed Tomorrow

Today marks the final chance for traders to make moves before a holiday break, with both stock and bond markets observing New Year’s Day on Wednesday, when they will remain closed. The bond markets will shut down early today at 2 p.m. ET. Although December has been rocky, it has been a remarkable year overall, with gains across major indexes: the Nasdaq soaring nearly 30%, the S&P 500 appreciating about 24%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbing 13%. Investors are hoping for a strong close to what is shaping up to be an extraordinary trading year.

2. U.S. Stock Futures Point to a Slight Upsurge Despite Struggles

U.S. stock futures are looking optimistic as we head into the closing hours of December, despite the market experiencing a downturn in the previous days. Nasdaq futures are showing a 0.5% increase, while S&P 500 and Dow futures are up 0.4% and 0.3%, respectively. Even so, both are on track to record their worst monthly performance since April. Additionally, yields on the 10-year Treasury note are falling to around 4.52%, while cryptocurrency enthusiasts will be cheering as Bitcoin trades over $94,000, up nearly 2% today. Oil and gold prices are also reflecting positive momentum.

3. Tesla’s Stock Seeks Recovery Following Recent Decline

After a challenging week, Tesla (TSLA) shares are rebounding, gaining 1% in premarket trading. The electric vehicle giant encountered a significant bump with a 10% slump over the past three sessions, but its year-to-date performance remains impressive with a 68% increase. Investors eagerly await the company’s fourth-quarter delivery report, expected to unveil around 510,000 units sold—a 10% increase from the previous quarter and a 5% year-over-year rise. This report could light up the stock’s trajectory as it reports later this week.

4. Boeing Shares Recovering Slightly After Recent Setbacks

Boeing (BA) shares are inching upward in premarket trading today following a sharp decline after the crash of a South Korean airline that tragically resulted in the loss of 179 lives. In response to this disaster, the South Korean government has ordered immediate inspections of all 737-800 aircraft. Boeing’s stock has had a tough year, dropping roughly 33% amid ongoing quality issues and labor disruptions, leading the aerospace giant to seek additional funding to maintain its investment-grade credit rating and mitigate cash flow challenges.

5. S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index Report Release Today

Market watchers are anticipating today’s release of the S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index for October, which will provide insight into real estate trends just ahead of the New Year. This data is increasingly crucial as the housing market remains a significant economic indicator, reflecting broader consumer sentiment and financial stability.

As trading winds down for 2024, these insights could provide the necessary edge for informed decision-making in the dynamic world of finance. With significant indicators and their potential implications for 2025 on the horizon, investors are advised to stay tuned for developments that could shape the upcoming trading landscape!