Insights

The stock market was largely driven by mixed labor data and optimism over a possible interest rate cut following the Federal Reserve's meeting next week.

Wall Street experienced a strong Thanksgiving week, largely erasing losses from the preceding volatile period. Increasing hopes of an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve next month helped fuel the rally. After a shaky few weeks, tech stocks surged last week, driving the NASDAQ to its largest weekly gain in quite some time.

What's in this issue: Record Charitable Giving in 2024; Traditional vs. Roth: IRA Preference Differs by Generation; Finish the Year Strong by Considering These Tax Moves; Holiday Tipping Etiquette: Tis' the Season to Show Your Appreciation; Goodbye Passwords, Hello Passkeys; Strategies for Smarter Giving; and Beneficiary Designations: Who Gets the Money?

Volatility continued to characterize the stock market last week. Wall Street endured significant swings driven by a mix of key corporate earnings reports, important economic data following the government’s reopening, and shifting expectations for the Federal Reserve interest rate policy.

The Fed cut rates for the second consecutive meeting, and although another cut this year remains uncertain, history suggests that easing policy amid strong markets often supports further gains.