US Markets End 2024 with Volatility as Dollar Strengthens

Equity Overview: The S&P 500 fell 0.5%, and the Nasdaq 100 dropped 0.9% in the last trading session of the year. Despite recent declines, the S&P 500 posted a remarkable 53% two-year gain, its best performance since the late 1990s.

Treasuries & Dollar: Treasury yields rose, reflecting investor caution as the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index recorded its largest annual gain since 2015. The Fed's cautious stance on rate cuts continues to shape market sentiment.

⚫Commodities:

— Gold: On track for a 27% annual gain, marking its best year since 2010.
— Oil: WTI crude edged up 1.2%, ending the year flat amidst concerns of a potential surplus in 2025.
— Cocoa: Surged by 172% this year due to supply disruptions and market volatility.
— European Natural Gas: Prices spiked, driven by fears of halted Russian flows.
— Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin rose 2.1%, trading at $93,890, while Ether gained 1.1%, closing at $3,349.

As markets close a turbulent year, investors face looming inflation concerns, Federal Reserve policies, and potential shifts under the Trump administration in 2025.

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