Reports

Stock market averages raced higher to end the final 3 months of the year at a high point. There were real moments of weakness within the quarter and the year, as many stock measures were in negative territory for meaningful periods of time.

The impact of rising trends has been felt everywhere: inflation, Fed Policy, and higher rates make it harder for corporations to increase profits. Hence the negative influence on the stock market.

Wide gaps in performance between various sectors of the market have emerged. These gaps have expanded further in recent weeks and indicate a weak broad market.

We preach against short-term focus and market timing temptation. However, rising regulatory burdens and interest rates for companies that need to borrow have increased short-term costs.

Earlier market declines reversed during the quarter. Stocks in the US and abroad generally moved higher than in the preceding three months despite wobbling lower before year-end.