The US economy showed solid growth at the end of 2024, with consumer spending advancing at a 4.2% pace. The Federal Open Market Committee left interest rates unchanged, indicating a patient approach toward inflation. Key economic indicators, including the personal consumption expenditures index, are anticipated to show elevated inflation levels. In the markets, S&P 500 futures, Euro Stoxx 50 futures, and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 saw gains, while Bitcoin fell and Ether rose slightly. Bond yields saw minor changes, with the US 10-year Treasury yield advancing to 4.53%.
Key takeaways:
- Futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 rose after Apple Inc. reported robust results, despite Asian equities falling due to pressure on technology companies.
- The US economy showed solid growth at the end of 2024, with consumer spending advancing at a 4.2% pace, the highest since early 2023.
- The Federal Open Market Committee left interest rates unchanged, indicating a patient approach due to stalled progress toward lower inflation.
- Gold reached a record high, and oil prices increased, with West Texas Intermediate crude trading around $73 per barrel.