December 2024
03/01/25 15:32
S&P500
In December 2024, the S&P 500 experienced a decline of approximately 2.6%, marking its most significant year-end drop since at least 1952.  Despite this downturn, the index achieved a robust annual gain of 23.3%, following a 24% increase in 2023.  This back-to-back performance of over 20% annual gains is a rare occurrence, not seen since the late 1990s. 
The December decline was influenced by several factors, including profit-taking by investors and concerns over potential interest rate adjustments by the Federal Reserve. Additionally, the market’s concentration in a few large technology companies, often referred to as “The Magnificent Seven,” contributed to increased volatility. 
Despite the December setback, the S&P 500’s strong annual performance reflects investor optimism and resilience in the face of economic uncertainties.
CRUDE OIL
Analysts suggest that while the market remains well-supplied, potential production challenges in countries like Iran, Venezuela, and Russia could lead to price increases in 2025. Additionally, investor focus is shifting towards the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monetary policy and the economic policies of President-elect Donald Trump, which are expected to be pro-growth and inflationary. 
In summary, December 2024 was characterised by significant volatility in crude oil prices, influenced by a complex interplay of supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and economic indicators.
BITCOIN
In December 2024, Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $108,319, driven by institutional interest, economic factors, and regulatory clarity. In summary, December 2024 was a milestone month for Bitcoin, with the cryptocurrency reaching unprecedented highs before experiencing a correction. The factors contributing to its performance suggest a complex interplay of market dynamics, regulatory developments, and investor sentiment.
In December 2024, the S&P 500 experienced a decline of approximately 2.6%, marking its most significant year-end drop since at least 1952.  Despite this downturn, the index achieved a robust annual gain of 23.3%, following a 24% increase in 2023.  This back-to-back performance of over 20% annual gains is a rare occurrence, not seen since the late 1990s. 
The December decline was influenced by several factors, including profit-taking by investors and concerns over potential interest rate adjustments by the Federal Reserve. Additionally, the market’s concentration in a few large technology companies, often referred to as “The Magnificent Seven,” contributed to increased volatility. 
Despite the December setback, the S&P 500’s strong annual performance reflects investor optimism and resilience in the face of economic uncertainties.
CRUDE OIL
Analysts suggest that while the market remains well-supplied, potential production challenges in countries like Iran, Venezuela, and Russia could lead to price increases in 2025. Additionally, investor focus is shifting towards the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monetary policy and the economic policies of President-elect Donald Trump, which are expected to be pro-growth and inflationary. 
In summary, December 2024 was characterised by significant volatility in crude oil prices, influenced by a complex interplay of supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and economic indicators.
BITCOIN
In December 2024, Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $108,319, driven by institutional interest, economic factors, and regulatory clarity. In summary, December 2024 was a milestone month for Bitcoin, with the cryptocurrency reaching unprecedented highs before experiencing a correction. The factors contributing to its performance suggest a complex interplay of market dynamics, regulatory developments, and investor sentiment.