U.S. Economic Surprise Index The recent peak in the U.S. Economic Surprise Index indicates that lower bond yields may be on the horizon. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

Sentiment – NFIB Small Business Optimism Index In November, the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased by 8 points to 101.7, driven by the recent election results, potentially boosting employment, investment, and economic activity. Image:…

Market-Implied Probability of a Recession Starting Within 1 Year and Market-Implied Probability of Being in a Recession Concerns about a recession are like those pesky weeds in your garden: they never really go away, but…

Total Cryptocurrency Market Capitalization The cryptocurrency market has witnessed significant growth recently, with its total market capitalization approaching US$4 trillion. Image: Gavekal, Macrobond

S&P 500 and Trend Channel Deutsche Bank’s bullish outlook sees the S&P 500 at 7,000 by year-end 2025, driven by anticipated earnings growth—a forecast compelling enough to catch bears’ attention. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation

Valuation – 12-Month Forward P/E Ranges (MSCI Regions) While the U.S. stock market has shown impressive performance, the substantial divergence between current valuations and historical averages raises crucial questions about its long-term sustainability. Image: Goldman…

Gold Holdings vs. Gold Price The outlook for gold remains bullish, driven by falling interest rates and sustained central bank purchases, with multiple forecasts converging around the US$3,000 mark for gold prices by the end…

VIX – Volatility Index While the current low VIX suggests investors are feeling as calm as a cat in a sunbeam, it also serves as a warning about potential future volatility if market conditions shift…

Sentiment – U.S. Composite Put/Call Ratio The sharp decline in the U.S. put/call ratio to very low levels signals widespread market complacency, as even typically anxious investors appear unworried. Image: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day With the S&P 500 reaching record highs, bulls are scratching their heads, wondering why bears are so bearish—perhaps they simply can’t find U.S. stocks at attractive prices! Have a Great…

U.S. ETF Flows The record-breaking inflows into U.S. ETFs in 2024 not only underscore their growing popularity but also reflect a broader shift in investor preferences towards more efficient and flexible investment options in a…