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  • Scott Peters
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

Howard Hughes Holdings soared 7.8% to $78.36 after Bill Ackman controlled Pershing Square offered to acquire the residential real estate company for $85 a share. 

Moderna Inc. declined 20% to $33.72 after the biotech company lowered its 2025 revenue range to between $1.5 billion and $2.5 billion, a decrease of $1 billion from the previous estimate as the company continues its operating costs. 

The revised outlook is lower than the previous outlook between $2.5 billion and $3.5 billion issued in September. 

  • Scott Peters
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

Howard Hughes Holdings soared 7.8% to $78.36 after Bill Ackman controlled Pershing Square offered to acquire the residential real estate company for $85 a share. 

Moderna Inc. declined 20% to $33.72 after the biotech company lowered its 2025 revenue range to between $1.5 billion and $2.5 billion, a decrease of $1 billion from the previous estimate as the company continues its operating costs. 

The revised outlook is lower than the previous outlook between $2.5 billion and $3.5 billion issued in September. 

  • Alexander Garcia
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Miami

Stock market indexes struggled to rise above the flatline amid renewed worries about inflation and a shift in interest rate outlook following a string of hotter-than-expected jobs and other economic reports. 

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6%, and the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.2% in Monday's trading, and the dollar extended its advance against the euro, the pound, the yen, the Swiss franc, and the Indian rupee. 

Market indexes sold off sharply in Friday’s trading and extended holiday-shortened weekly losses, and the U.S. dollar advanced against major currencies around the world between 2% and 4% last week. 

Wall Street sentiment soured amid changing expectations for interest rates in the near future, and investors have been on the defensive after the sudden and sustained increase in yields over the last three months.

The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes jumped from 3.6% in late September to 4.8% in Monday's trading, and the yields are likely to stay elevated amid a rebound in inflation and a strong jobs market. 

Last week, a private survey on the service sector confirmed expansion in business activities, but participants lifted inflation outlook in the months ahead.

Moreover, December’s nonfarm payrolls expanded more than expected, confirming that the Federal Reserve could keep higher interest rates for longer and may even consider raising them if stubborn service inflation fails to weaken in the months ahead.

On the economic front this week, investors are looking forward to the release of reports on U.S. inflation, housing market activities, industrial production, and retail sales.

 

U.S. Indexes and Treasury Yields

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.8% to 5,780.87, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.6% to 18,861.17, and the Russell 2000 index inched down by 0.9% to 2,169.48. 

The yield on 2-year Treasury notes edged higher to 4.40%, 10-year Treasury notes inched up to 4.77%, and 30-year Treasury bonds increased to 4.95%.

WTI crude oil increased $2.55 to $79.11 a barrel, and natural gas prices edged up 3 cents to $3.95 a thermal unit.

Gold decreased by $24.76 to $2,660.85 an ounce, and silver fell by $0.76 to $29.61. 

The dollar index, which weighs the US currency against a basket of foreign currencies, decreased by 0.23 to 109.92 and traded at a two-year high. 

 

U.S. Stock Movers 

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

 

Sluggish Economic Outlook Contribute to Weakening Euro and Rising Bond Yields

European stock market indexes declined in Monday's trading, and bond yields advanced to seven-month highs amid ongoing political turmoil and a sluggish economic outlook. 

Benchmark indexes in Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, and London declined after bond yields rose and the euro and the pound sank 0.5% and approached two-year lows.

Investors turned cautious and shifted expectations of future U.S. rate cuts after December's payrolls growth accelerated, reducing the possibility of an imminent rate cut and boosting the dollar. 

Moreover, ongoing political turmoil in Germany and France contributed to market anxieties and supported the increase in bond yields in the currency union. 

In the week ahead, investors are looking forward to the release of inflation updates in France, Spain, Italy, and the Euro Area. 

In the UK, investors are anticipating the release of retail sales, international trade data, industrial production, and retail sales.

China's exports and trade surplus soared in December and in 2024, and imports edged up about 1%, indicating a decreasing reliance on manufactured products from the West. 

 

Europe Indexes and Yields

The DAX index decreased by 0.6% to 20,137.22; the CAC-40 index fell by 0.3% to 7,408.64; and the FTSE 100 index inched lower by 0.3% to 8,224.19. 

In the previous week, the DAX increased 2.2%, the CAC-40 index advanced 2.7%, and the FTSE 100 index gained 0.8%. 

The yield on 10-year German bonds edged higher to 2.59%, French bonds rose to 3.43%, the UK gilts increased to 4.86%, and Italian bonds rose to 3.84%.

Currency traders are anticipating the euro to trade below parity with the U.S. dollar as the European Central Bank implements its four rate cuts this year, and the British pound is likely to sink to $1.03 amid worsening economic outlook. 

The euro edged lower to $1.02; the British pound inched lower to $1.204; and the U.S. dollar strengthened to 91.67 Swiss cents.

Brent crude increased $1.55 to $81.32 a barrel, and the Dutch TTF natural gas fell by €2.81 to €48.25 per MWh. 

 

Europe Stock Movers

Energy stocks advanced after the U.S. placed additional and tougher sanctions on Russian oil and gas producers and shipping companies doing business with China and India.

BP plc increased 1% to 429.15 pence, Shell PLC added 1% to 2,653.50, and TotalEnergies SE advanced 0.7% to €55.64. 

Luxury stocks in Paris and Milan struggled to stay above the flatline after China's imports edged up only 1% in December. 

Hermes International SCA increased 1% to €2,335.0, Kering SA decreased 1.1% to €225.15, and LVMH fell 0.8% to €639.80. 

Leading automakers in Europe advanced despite China's 2024 electric vehicle exports surging to 6.04 million units in 2024, an increase of 22% from a year ago. 

Mercedes-Benz Group advanced 0.8% to €55.49, Volkswagen AG increased 0.1% to €92.70, and Ferrari NV fell 0.9% to €406.30. 

Deutsche Bank AG decreased 2.4% to €16.68, Commerzbank AG declined 0.5% to €16.57, Banco Santander eased 1.3% to €4.51, HSBC fell 1.3% to 789.10 pence, and Barclays PLC eased 1%. 

 

 

China and Hong Kong Indexes Sink Further 

Stock market indexes in China and Hong Kong fell and traded at four-month lows after the strong U.S. jobs reports knocked down rate cut expectations and boosted the U.S. dollar.

The Hang Seng index dropped 1.2%, and the CSI 300 index declined 0.5% following the release of December's nonfarm payrolls report. 

The U.S. economy added 256,000 jobs in December, faster than 212,000 in the previous month, and accelerated for the second month in a row, according to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The strong labor market report also supported the case for the Federal Reserve to lower rates by a smaller amount and raised prospects of a pivot to a rate increase later in the year. 

The shift in outlook for the U.S. interest rates knocked down market indexes in China, Korea, India, and Australia.

Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. 

Investors reviewed the international trade data for December, and exports soared 10.7% and imports advanced 1%. 

 

China's Exports and Trade Surplus Surge to Record Highs In December and 2024 

Exports advanced for the ninth month in a row and rose at the fastest pace in four years to $335.6 billion as customers front-loaded orders ahead of possible escalation in U.S. tariffs in the second administration of Donald Trump.

Imports increased 1% to a 27-month high of $230.8 billion, reversing a 3.9% fall in November, according to trade data released by General Administration of Customs on Monday. 

China's trade surplus rose to $104.8 billion in December, an increase from $75.31 billion a year ago, and the largest since February after the surge in exports. 

For the full year of 2024, exports advanced 5.9% to $3.6 trillion, and imports increased 1.1% to $2.6 trillion, lifting the full-year surplus to a record high of $992.2 billion from $823.2 billion a year ago. 

China's exports in the year were driven by a surge in demand for electric vehicles, solar panels, and advanced chips. 

Electric vehicle shipments in 2024 soared to a record 6.04 million units, an increase of 22% from a year ago.

In value terms, exports increased 15.5% to a record $117.4 billion from a year ago in 2024. 

 

China Stock Movers 

The Hang Seng Index dropped 1.2% to 18,837.39, and the mainland-focused CSI 300 index decreased 0.5% to 3,714.42. 

Technology stocks continued to decline for the third week in a row following the rise in U.S. bond yields, lowering the appeal of high-growth companies. 

Baidu Inc. declined 3.7% to HK $75.60, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. dropped 1.9% to HK $78.05, JD.com Inc. fell 2% to HK $128.40, and Meituan closed down 3.2% to HK $135.70. 

Yibin City Commercial Bank traded around HK $2.59 after the company listed its stock on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. 

The bank priced its initial public offering at HK $2.59 and raised net proceeds of HK $1.71 billion, or $219 million. 

New Gonow Recreational Vehicles plunged 15% to HK $1.10 after the company listed its share on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and raised HK $305 million, or $39 million. 

The vehicle maker sold 240 million shares at a price of HK $1.27 per share, near the bottom end of its pricing range between HK $1.24 and HK $1.64. 

 

  • Alexander Garcia
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Miami

Stock market indexes struggled to rise above the flatline amid renewed worries about inflation and a shift in interest rate outlook following a string of hotter-than-expected jobs and other economic reports. 

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6%, and the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.2% in Monday's trading, and the dollar extended its advance against the euro, the pound, the yen, the Swiss franc, and the Indian rupee. 

Market indexes sold off sharply in Friday’s trading and extended holiday-shortened weekly losses, and the U.S. dollar advanced against major currencies around the world between 2% and 4% last week. 

Wall Street sentiment soured amid changing expectations for interest rates in the near future, and investors have been on the defensive after the sudden and sustained increase in yields over the last three months.

The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes jumped from 3.6% in late September to 4.8% in Monday's trading, and the yields are likely to stay elevated amid a rebound in inflation and a strong jobs market. 

Last week, a private survey on the service sector confirmed expansion in business activities, but participants lifted inflation outlook in the months ahead.

Moreover, December’s nonfarm payrolls expanded more than expected, confirming that the Federal Reserve could keep higher interest rates for longer and may even consider raising them if stubborn service inflation fails to weaken in the months ahead.

On the economic front this week, investors are looking forward to the release of reports on U.S. inflation, housing market activities, industrial production, and retail sales.

 

U.S. Indexes and Treasury Yields

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.8% to 5,780.87, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.6% to 18,861.17, and the Russell 2000 index inched down by 0.9% to 2,169.48. 

The yield on 2-year Treasury notes edged higher to 4.40%, 10-year Treasury notes inched up to 4.77%, and 30-year Treasury bonds increased to 4.95%.

WTI crude oil increased $2.55 to $79.11 a barrel, and natural gas prices edged up 3 cents to $3.95 a thermal unit.

Gold decreased by $24.76 to $2,660.85 an ounce, and silver fell by $0.76 to $29.61. 

The dollar index, which weighs the US currency against a basket of foreign currencies, decreased by 0.23 to 109.92 and traded at a two-year high. 

 

U.S. Stock Movers 

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

 

Sluggish Economic Outlook Contribute to Weakening Euro and Rising Bond Yields

European stock market indexes declined in Monday's trading, and bond yields advanced to seven-month highs amid ongoing political turmoil and a sluggish economic outlook. 

Benchmark indexes in Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, and London declined after bond yields rose and the euro and the pound sank 0.5% and approached two-year lows.

Investors turned cautious and shifted expectations of future U.S. rate cuts after December's payrolls growth accelerated, reducing the possibility of an imminent rate cut and boosting the dollar. 

Moreover, ongoing political turmoil in Germany and France contributed to market anxieties and supported the increase in bond yields in the currency union. 

In the week ahead, investors are looking forward to the release of inflation updates in France, Spain, Italy, and the Euro Area. 

In the UK, investors are anticipating the release of retail sales, international trade data, industrial production, and retail sales.

China's exports and trade surplus soared in December and in 2024, and imports edged up about 1%, indicating a decreasing reliance on manufactured products from the West. 

 

Europe Indexes and Yields

The DAX index decreased by 0.6% to 20,137.22; the CAC-40 index fell by 0.3% to 7,408.64; and the FTSE 100 index inched lower by 0.3% to 8,224.19. 

In the previous week, the DAX increased 2.2%, the CAC-40 index advanced 2.7%, and the FTSE 100 index gained 0.8%. 

The yield on 10-year German bonds edged higher to 2.59%, French bonds rose to 3.43%, the UK gilts increased to 4.86%, and Italian bonds rose to 3.84%.

Currency traders are anticipating the euro to trade below parity with the U.S. dollar as the European Central Bank implements its four rate cuts this year, and the British pound is likely to sink to $1.03 amid worsening economic outlook. 

The euro edged lower to $1.02; the British pound inched lower to $1.204; and the U.S. dollar strengthened to 91.67 Swiss cents.

Brent crude increased $1.55 to $81.32 a barrel, and the Dutch TTF natural gas fell by €2.81 to €48.25 per MWh. 

 

Europe Stock Movers

Energy stocks advanced after the U.S. placed additional and tougher sanctions on Russian oil and gas producers and shipping companies doing business with China and India.

BP plc increased 1% to 429.15 pence, Shell PLC added 1% to 2,653.50, and TotalEnergies SE advanced 0.7% to €55.64. 

Luxury stocks in Paris and Milan struggled to stay above the flatline after China's imports edged up only 1% in December. 

Hermes International SCA increased 1% to €2,335.0, Kering SA decreased 1.1% to €225.15, and LVMH fell 0.8% to €639.80. 

Leading automakers in Europe advanced despite China's 2024 electric vehicle exports surging to 6.04 million units in 2024, an increase of 22% from a year ago. 

Mercedes-Benz Group advanced 0.8% to €55.49, Volkswagen AG increased 0.1% to €92.70, and Ferrari NV fell 0.9% to €406.30. 

Deutsche Bank AG decreased 2.4% to €16.68, Commerzbank AG declined 0.5% to €16.57, Banco Santander eased 1.3% to €4.51, HSBC fell 1.3% to 789.10 pence, and Barclays PLC eased 1%. 

 

 

China and Hong Kong Indexes Sink Further 

Stock market indexes in China and Hong Kong fell and traded at four-month lows after the strong U.S. jobs reports knocked down rate cut expectations and boosted the U.S. dollar.

The Hang Seng index dropped 1.2%, and the CSI 300 index declined 0.5% following the release of December's nonfarm payrolls report. 

The U.S. economy added 256,000 jobs in December, faster than 212,000 in the previous month, and accelerated for the second month in a row, according to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The strong labor market report also supported the case for the Federal Reserve to lower rates by a smaller amount and raised prospects of a pivot to a rate increase later in the year. 

The shift in outlook for the U.S. interest rates knocked down market indexes in China, Korea, India, and Australia.

Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. 

Investors reviewed the international trade data for December, and exports soared 10.7% and imports advanced 1%. 

 

China's Exports and Trade Surplus Surge to Record Highs In December and 2024 

Exports advanced for the ninth month in a row and rose at the fastest pace in four years to $335.6 billion as customers front-loaded orders ahead of possible escalation in U.S. tariffs in the second administration of Donald Trump.

Imports increased 1% to a 27-month high of $230.8 billion, reversing a 3.9% fall in November, according to trade data released by General Administration of Customs on Monday. 

China's trade surplus rose to $104.8 billion in December, an increase from $75.31 billion a year ago, and the largest since February after the surge in exports. 

For the full year of 2024, exports advanced 5.9% to $3.6 trillion, and imports increased 1.1% to $2.6 trillion, lifting the full-year surplus to a record high of $992.2 billion from $823.2 billion a year ago. 

China's exports in the year were driven by a surge in demand for electric vehicles, solar panels, and advanced chips. 

Electric vehicle shipments in 2024 soared to a record 6.04 million units, an increase of 22% from a year ago.

In value terms, exports increased 15.5% to a record $117.4 billion from a year ago in 2024. 

 

China Stock Movers 

The Hang Seng Index dropped 1.2% to 18,837.39, and the mainland-focused CSI 300 index decreased 0.5% to 3,714.42. 

Technology stocks continued to decline for the third week in a row following the rise in U.S. bond yields, lowering the appeal of high-growth companies. 

Baidu Inc. declined 3.7% to HK $75.60, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. dropped 1.9% to HK $78.05, JD.com Inc. fell 2% to HK $128.40, and Meituan closed down 3.2% to HK $135.70. 

Yibin City Commercial Bank traded around HK $2.59 after the company listed its stock on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. 

The bank priced its initial public offering at HK $2.59 and raised net proceeds of HK $1.71 billion, or $219 million. 

New Gonow Recreational Vehicles plunged 15% to HK $1.10 after the company listed its share on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and raised HK $305 million, or $39 million. 

The vehicle maker sold 240 million shares at a price of HK $1.27 per share, near the bottom end of its pricing range between HK $1.24 and HK $1.64. 

 

  • Barry Adams
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Surging bond yields continued to dampen market sentiment for the second week in a row following a string of hotter-than-expected jobs and other economic reports. 

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6%, and the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.2% in Monday's trading, and the dollar extended its advance against the euro, the pound, the yen, the Swiss franc, and the rupee. 

Market indexes sold off sharply in Friday’s trading and extended holiday-shortened weekly losses, and the U.S. dollar advanced against major currencies around the world between 2% and 4%. 

Wall Street sentiment soured amid changing expectations for interest rates in the near future, and investors have been on the defensive after the sudden and sustained increase in yields over the last three months.

The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes jumped from 3.6% in late September to 4.8% last Friday, and the yields are likely to stay elevated amid a rebound in inflation and a strong jobs market. 

Last week, a private survey on the service sector confirmed expansion in business activities, but participants lifted inflation outlook in the months ahead.

Moreover, December’s nonfarm payrolls expanded more than expected, confirming that the Federal Reserve could keep higher interest rates for longer and may even consider raising them if stubborn service inflation fails to weaken in the months ahead.

On the economic front this week, investors are looking forward to the release of U.S. inflation reports, housing market updates, industrial production, and retail sales.

 

U.S. Indexes and Treasury Yields

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6% to 5,792.43, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.2% to 18,924.65, and the Russell 2000 index inched down by 0.9% to 2,170.83. 

The yield on 2-year Treasury notes edged higher to 4.40%, 10-year Treasury notes inched up to 4.77%, and 30-year Treasury bonds increased to 4.95%.

WTI crude oil increased $1.45 to $78.02 a barrel, and natural gas prices edged up 2 cents to $4.03 a thermal unit.

Gold decreased by $18.22 to $2,667.14 an ounce, and silver fell by $0.65 to $29.74. 

The dollar index, which weighs the US currency against a basket of foreign currencies, decreased by 0.18 to 109.85 and traded at a two-year high. 

 

U.S. Stock Movers 

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

  • Barry Adams
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Surging bond yields continued to dampen market sentiment for the second week in a row following a string of hotter-than-expected jobs and other economic reports. 

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6%, and the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.2% in Monday's trading, and the dollar extended its advance against the euro, the pound, the yen, the Swiss franc, and the rupee. 

Market indexes sold off sharply in Friday’s trading and extended holiday-shortened weekly losses, and the U.S. dollar advanced against major currencies around the world between 2% and 4%. 

Wall Street sentiment soured amid changing expectations for interest rates in the near future, and investors have been on the defensive after the sudden and sustained increase in yields over the last three months.

The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes jumped from 3.6% in late September to 4.8% last Friday, and the yields are likely to stay elevated amid a rebound in inflation and a strong jobs market. 

Last week, a private survey on the service sector confirmed expansion in business activities, but participants lifted inflation outlook in the months ahead.

Moreover, December’s nonfarm payrolls expanded more than expected, confirming that the Federal Reserve could keep higher interest rates for longer and may even consider raising them if stubborn service inflation fails to weaken in the months ahead.

On the economic front this week, investors are looking forward to the release of U.S. inflation reports, housing market updates, industrial production, and retail sales.

 

U.S. Indexes and Treasury Yields

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.6% to 5,792.43, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.2% to 18,924.65, and the Russell 2000 index inched down by 0.9% to 2,170.83. 

The yield on 2-year Treasury notes edged higher to 4.40%, 10-year Treasury notes inched up to 4.77%, and 30-year Treasury bonds increased to 4.95%.

WTI crude oil increased $1.45 to $78.02 a barrel, and natural gas prices edged up 2 cents to $4.03 a thermal unit.

Gold decreased by $18.22 to $2,667.14 an ounce, and silver fell by $0.65 to $29.74. 

The dollar index, which weighs the US currency against a basket of foreign currencies, decreased by 0.18 to 109.85 and traded at a two-year high. 

 

U.S. Stock Movers 

Abercrombie & Fitch jumped 8% to $147.99 despite the apparel retailer revising its holiday sales outlook slightly higher.

The retailer estimated holiday quarter sales to increase between 7% and 8%, compared to the previous estimate between 5% and 7%, but significantly lower than 21% from a year ago. 

Lululemon Athletica increased 1.9% to $403.29 after the specialty apparel retailer lifted its fourth quarter sales outlook. 

The company now estimated sales to increase between 11% and 12% to between $3.56 billion and $3.58 billion, higher than the previous range between $3.48 billion and $3.51 billion. 

The company is now forecasting its earnings per share to range between $5.81 and $5.85 compared to the previous estimate between $5.56 and $5.64. 

American Eagle Outfitters decreased 3.5% to $15.68 despite the retailer raising its fourth quarter outlook. 

The company said comparable sales in the quarter ending on January 4 were up in low single digits compared to the previous estimate of a 1% increase. 

The company also estimated fourth quarter operating profit of $135 million compared to the previous estimate of $125 million. 

  • Bridgette Randall
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • London

European stock market indexes declined in Monday's trading, and bond yields advanced to seven-month highs amid ongoing political turmoil and a sluggish economic outlook. 

Benchmark indexes in Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, and London declined after bond yields rose and the euro and the pound sank 0.5% and approached two-year lows.

Investors turned cautious and shifted expectations of future U.S. rate cuts after December's payrolls growth accelerated, reducing the possibility of an imminent rate cut and boosting the dollar. 

Moreover, ongoing political turmoil in Germany and France contributed to market anxieties and supported the increase in bond yields in the currency union. 

In the week ahead, investors are looking forward to the release of inflation updates in France, Spain, Italy, and the Euro Area. 

In the UK, investors are anticipating the release of retail sales, international trade data, industrial production, and retail sales.

China's exports and trade surplus soared in December and in 2024, and imports edged up about 1%, indicating a decreasing reliance on manufactured products from the West. 

 

Europe Indexes and Yields

The DAX index decreased by 0.6% to 20,094.32; the CAC-40 index fell by 0.7% to 7,374.96; and the FTSE 100 index inched lower by 0.3% to 8,226.77. 

In the previous week, the DAX increased 2.2%, the CAC-40 index advanced 2.7%, and the FTSE 100 index gained 0.8%. 

The yield on 10-year German bonds edged higher to 2.59%, French bonds rose to 3.43%, the UK gilts increased to 4.86%, and Italian bonds rose to 3.84%.

Currency traders are anticipating the euro to trade below parity with the U.S. dollar as the European Central Bank implements its four rate cuts this year, and the British pound is likely to sink to $1.03 amid worsening economic outlook. 

The euro edged lower to $1.02; the British pound inched lower to $1.204; and the U.S. dollar strengthened to 91.67 Swiss cents.

Brent crude increased $1.01 to $81.07 a barrel, and the Dutch TTF natural gas fell by €1.73 to €47.17 per MWh. 

 

Europe Stock Movers

Energy stocks advanced after the U.S. placed additional and tougher sanctions on Russian oil and gas producers and shipping companies doing business with China and India.

BP plc increased 1% to 429.15 pence, Shell PLC added 1% to 2,653.50, and TotalEnergies SE advanced 0.7% to €55.64. 

Luxury stocks in Paris and Milan struggled to stay above the flatline after China's imports edged up only 1% in December. 

Hermes International SCA increased 1% to €2,335.0, Kering SA decreased 1.1% to €225.15, and LVMH fell 0.8% to €639.80. 

Leading automakers in Europe advanced despite China's 2024 electric vehicle exports surging to 6.04 million units in 2024, an increase of 22% from a year ago. 

Mercedes-Benz Group advanced 0.8% to €55.49, Volkswagen AG increased 0.1% to €92.70, and Ferrari NV fell 0.9% to €406.30. 

Deutsche Bank AG decreased 2.4% to €16.68, Commerzbank AG declined 0.5% to €16.57, Banco Santander eased 1.3% to €4.51, HSBC fell 1.3% to 789.10 pence, and Barclays PLC eased 1%. 

  • Bridgette Randall
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • London

European stock market indexes declined in Monday's trading, and bond yields advanced to seven-month highs amid ongoing political turmoil and a sluggish economic outlook. 

Benchmark indexes in Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, and London declined after bond yields rose and the euro and the pound sank 0.5% and approached two-year lows.

Investors turned cautious and shifted expectations of future U.S. rate cuts after December's payrolls growth accelerated, reducing the possibility of an imminent rate cut and boosting the dollar. 

Moreover, ongoing political turmoil in Germany and France contributed to market anxieties and supported the increase in bond yields in the currency union. 

In the week ahead, investors are looking forward to the release of inflation updates in France, Spain, Italy, and the Euro Area. 

In the UK, investors are anticipating the release of retail sales, international trade data, industrial production, and retail sales.

China's exports and trade surplus soared in December and in 2024, and imports edged up about 1%, indicating a decreasing reliance on manufactured products from the West. 

 

Europe Indexes and Yields

The DAX index decreased by 0.6% to 20,094.32; the CAC-40 index fell by 0.7% to 7,374.96; and the FTSE 100 index inched lower by 0.3% to 8,226.77. 

In the previous week, the DAX increased 2.2%, the CAC-40 index advanced 2.7%, and the FTSE 100 index gained 0.8%. 

The yield on 10-year German bonds edged higher to 2.59%, French bonds rose to 3.43%, the UK gilts increased to 4.86%, and Italian bonds rose to 3.84%.

Currency traders are anticipating the euro to trade below parity with the U.S. dollar as the European Central Bank implements its four rate cuts this year, and the British pound is likely to sink to $1.03 amid worsening economic outlook. 

The euro edged lower to $1.02; the British pound inched lower to $1.204; and the U.S. dollar strengthened to 91.67 Swiss cents.

Brent crude increased $1.01 to $81.07 a barrel, and the Dutch TTF natural gas fell by €1.73 to €47.17 per MWh. 

 

Europe Stock Movers

Energy stocks advanced after the U.S. placed additional and tougher sanctions on Russian oil and gas producers and shipping companies doing business with China and India.

BP plc increased 1% to 429.15 pence, Shell PLC added 1% to 2,653.50, and TotalEnergies SE advanced 0.7% to €55.64. 

Luxury stocks in Paris and Milan struggled to stay above the flatline after China's imports edged up only 1% in December. 

Hermes International SCA increased 1% to €2,335.0, Kering SA decreased 1.1% to €225.15, and LVMH fell 0.8% to €639.80. 

Leading automakers in Europe advanced despite China's 2024 electric vehicle exports surging to 6.04 million units in 2024, an increase of 22% from a year ago. 

Mercedes-Benz Group advanced 0.8% to €55.49, Volkswagen AG increased 0.1% to €92.70, and Ferrari NV fell 0.9% to €406.30. 

Deutsche Bank AG decreased 2.4% to €16.68, Commerzbank AG declined 0.5% to €16.57, Banco Santander eased 1.3% to €4.51, HSBC fell 1.3% to 789.10 pence, and Barclays PLC eased 1%. 

  • Li Chen
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Hong Kong

Stock market indexes in China and Hong Kong fell and traded at four-month lows after the strong U.S. jobs reports knocked down rate cut expectations and boosted the U.S. dollar.

The Hang Seng index dropped 1.2%, and the CSI 300 index declined 0.5% following the release of December's nonfarm payrolls report. 

The U.S. economy added 256,000 jobs in December, faster than 212,000 in the previous month, and accelerated for the second month in a row, according to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The strong labor market report also supported the case for the Federal Reserve to lower rates by a smaller amount and raised prospects of a pivot to a rate increase later in the year. 

The shift in outlook for the U.S. interest rates knocked down market indexes in China, Korea, India, and Australia.

Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. 

Investors reviewed the international trade data for December, and exports soared 10.7% and imports advanced 1%. 

Exports advanced for the ninth month in a row and rose at the fastest pace in four years to $335.6 billion as customers front-loaded orders ahead of possible escalation in U.S. tariffs in the second administration of Donald Trump.

Imports increased 1% to a 27-month high of $230.8 billion, reversing a 3.9% fall in November, according to trade data released by General Administration of Customs on Monday. 

China's trade surplus rose to $104.8 billion in December, an increase from $75.31 billion a year ago, and the largest since February after the surge in exports. 

For the full year of 2024, exports advanced 5.9% to $3.6 trillion, and imports increased 1.1% to $2.6 trillion, lifting the full-year surplus to a record high of $992.2 billion from $823.2 billion a year ago. 

China's exports in the year were driven by a surge in demand for electric vehicles, solar panels, and advanced chips. 

Electric vehicle shipments in 2024 soared to a record 6.04 million units, an increase of 22% from a year ago.

In value terms, exports increased 15.5% to a record $117.4 billion from a year ago in 2024. 

 

China Stock Movers 

The Hang Seng Index dropped 1.2% to 18,837.39, and the mainland-focused CSI 300 index decreased 0.5% to 3,714.42. 

Technology stocks continued to decline for the third week in a row following the rise in U.S. bond yields, lowering the appeal of high-growth companies. 

Baidu Inc. declined 3.7% to HK $75.60, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. dropped 1.9% to HK $78.05, JD.com Inc. fell 2% to HK $128.40, and Meituan closed down 3.2% to HK $135.70. 

Yibin City Commercial Bank traded around HK $2.59 after the company listed its stock on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. 

The bank priced its initial public offering at HK $2.59 and raised net proceeds of HK $1.71 billion, or $219 million. 

New Gonow Recreational Vehicles plunged 15% to HK $1.10 after the company listed its share on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and raised HK $305 million, or $39 million. 

The vehicle maker sold 240 million shares at a price of HK $1.27 per share, near the bottom end of its pricing range between HK $1.24 and HK $1.64. 

  • Li Chen
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Hong Kong

Stock market indexes in China and Hong Kong fell and traded at four-month lows after the strong U.S. jobs reports knocked down rate cut expectations and boosted the U.S. dollar.

The Hang Seng index dropped 1.2%, and the CSI 300 index declined 0.5% following the release of December's nonfarm payrolls report. 

The U.S. economy added 256,000 jobs in December, faster than 212,000 in the previous month, and accelerated for the second month in a row, according to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The strong labor market report also supported the case for the Federal Reserve to lower rates by a smaller amount and raised prospects of a pivot to a rate increase later in the year. 

The shift in outlook for the U.S. interest rates knocked down market indexes in China, Korea, India, and Australia.

Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. 

Investors reviewed the international trade data for December, and exports soared 10.7% and imports advanced 1%. 

Exports advanced for the ninth month in a row and rose at the fastest pace in four years to $335.6 billion as customers front-loaded orders ahead of possible escalation in U.S. tariffs in the second administration of Donald Trump.

Imports increased 1% to a 27-month high of $230.8 billion, reversing a 3.9% fall in November. 

China's trade surplus rose to $104.8 billion in December, an increase from $75.31 billion a year ago, and the largest since February after the surge in exports. 

For the full year of 2024, exports advanced 5.9% to $3.6 trillion, and imports increased 1.1% to $2.6 trillion, lifting the full-year surplus to $992.2 billion from $823.2 billion a year ago. 

 

China Stock Movers 

The Hang Seng Index dropped 1.2% to 18,837.39, and the mainland-focused CSI 300 index decreased 0.5% to 3,714.42. 

Technology stocks continued to decline for the third week in a row following the rise in U.S. bond yields, lowering the appeal of high-growth companies. 

Baidu Inc. declined 3.7% to HK $75.60, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. dropped 1.9% to HK $78.05, JD.com Inc. fell 2% to HK $128.40, and Meituan closed down 3.2% to HK $135.70. 

Yibin City Commercial Bank traded around HK $2.59 after the company listed its stock on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. 

The bank priced its initial public offering at HK $2.59 and raised net proceeds of HK $1.71 billion, or $219 million. 

New Gonow Recreational Vehicles plunged 15% to HK $1.10 after the company listed its share on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and raised HK $305 million, or $39 million. 

The vehicle maker sold 240 million shares at a price of HK $1.27 per share, near the bottom end of its pricing range between HK $1.24 and HK $1.64. 

  • Arun Goswami
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Mumbai

Stock market indexes in Mumbai headed lower, and the rupee sank to a new record low after bond yields in the U.S. and Europe advanced in Friday's trading.  

The Sensex index decreased by 0.9% to 76,725.95, and the Nifty index fell by 0.9% to 23,221.55.

On the Mumbai stock exchange, 53 stocks traded at their 52-week highs, and 296 stocks traded at their 52-week lows.

The yield on the 10-year Indian government bonds inched lower to 6.81%, and the Indian rupee traded around a record low of 86.29 against the U.S. dollar.

Avenue Supermarts Ltd. decreased 2.4% to ₹3,589.40 after the parent company of D-Mart reported weaker-than-expected growth in the December quarter. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹15,972 crore from ₹13,572 crore, and net income advanced to ₹723 crore from ₹690 crore a year ago. 

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Ltd. edged up 0.3% to ₹647.95 after the company reported December quarter results. 

The annualized premium equivalent increased 28% to ₹2,438 crore, and the new business premium jumped 57% to ₹644.2 crore from a year ago. 

Just Dial Ltd. declined 7.6% to ₹956.20 after the online directory and search listing provider reported December quarter results. 

Revenue increased to ₹285 crore from ₹265 crore, and net income advanced to ₹130 crore from ₹92 crore a year ago. 

Waaree Energies Ltd. gained 1.5% to ₹2,596.95, and the company said it plans to acquire Enel Green Power India for ₹792 crore.

PCBL Chemical Ltd. decreased 7.8% to ₹359.65 after the company reported December quarter results. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹2,010 crore from ₹1,660 crore, and net income fell to ₹93.1 crore from ₹150 crore a year ago. 

The company also declared an interim cash dividend of ₹5.50 per share. 

Equinox India Developments Ltd. increased 2.1% to ₹134.86 after the company swung to a profit in the December quarter. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹278 crore from ₹100 crore, and net income swung to a profit of ₹22.2 crore from a loss of ₹38.7 crore a year ago. 

  • Arun Goswami
  • 13 Jan, 2025
  • Mumbai

Stock market indexes in Mumbai headed lower, and the rupee sank to a new record low after bond yields in the U.S. and Europe advanced in Friday's trading.  

The Sensex index decreased by 0.9% to 76,725.95, and the Nifty index fell by 0.9% to 23,221.55.

On the Mumbai stock exchange, 53 stocks traded at their 52-week highs, and 296 stocks traded at their 52-week lows.

The yield on the 10-year Indian government bonds inched lower to 6.81%, and the Indian rupee traded around a record low of 86.29 against the U.S. dollar.

Avenue Supermarts Ltd. decreased 2.4% to ₹3,589.40 after the parent company of D-Mart reported weaker-than-expected growth in the December quarter. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹15,972 crore from ₹13,572 crore, and net income advanced to ₹723 crore from ₹690 crore a year ago. 

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Ltd. edged up 0.3% to ₹647.95 after the company reported December quarter results. 

The annualized premium equivalent increased 28% to ₹2,438 crore, and the new business premium jumped 57% to ₹644.2 crore from a year ago. 

Just Dial Ltd. declined 7.6% to ₹956.20 after the online directory and search listing provider reported December quarter results. 

Revenue increased to ₹285 crore from ₹265 crore, and net income advanced to ₹130 crore from ₹92 crore a year ago. 

Waaree Energies Ltd. gained 1.5% to ₹2,596.95, and the company said it plans to acquire Enel Green Power India for ₹792 crore.

PCBL Chemical Ltd. decreased 7.8% to ₹359.65 after the company reported December quarter results. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹2,010 crore from ₹1,660 crore, and net income fell to ₹93.1 crore from ₹150 crore a year ago. 

The company also declared an interim cash dividend of ₹5.50 per share. 

Equinox India Developments Ltd. increased 2.1% to ₹134.86 after the company swung to a profit in the December quarter. 

Consolidated revenue increased to ₹278 crore from ₹100 crore, and net income swung to a profit of ₹22.2 crore from a loss of ₹38.7 crore a year ago. 

  • Scott Peters
  • 10 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. increased 14.4% to $10.55 after the pharmacy chain operator reported better-than-expected quarterly results. 

Delta Air Lines Inc. gained 7% to $65.71 after the company reported better-than-expected quarterly results, and the company guided strong earnings and free cash flow in 2025. 

Revenue in the December quarter increased to $1.7 billion from $1.3 billion, net income decreased to $843 million from $2.03 billion, and diluted earnings per share fell to $1.29 from $3.67 a year ago. 

The company guided continued increases in revenue and higher demand for its premium products in 2025 and estimated pre-tax income of more than $6 billion, earnings per share of at least $7.35, and free cash flow to surpass $4 billion. 

  • Arun Goswami
  • 10 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. increased 14.4% to $10.55 after the pharmacy chain operator reported better-than-expected quarterly results. 

Delta Ai Lines Inc. gained 7% to $65.71 after the company reported better-than-expected quarterly results, and the company guided strong earnings and free cash flow in 2025. 

Revenue in the December quarter increased to $1.7 billion from $1.3 billion, net income decreased to $843 million from $2.03 billion, and diluted earnings per share fell to $1.29 from $3.67 a year ago. 

The company guided continued increases in revenue and higher demand for its premium products in 2025 and estimated pre-tax income of more than $6 billion, earnings per share of at least $7.35, and free cash flow to surpass $4 billion. 

  • Barry Adams
  • 10 Jan, 2025
  • New York City

Stock market indexes tumbled after a hotter-than-expected labor market report sent bond yields higher. 

The S&P 500 index decreased 1%, and the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.2% after the nonfarm payrolls expanded at a faster-than-expected pace in December, confirming the view that the Fed is likely to keep higher rates for longer. 

Nonfarm payrolls rose 256,000 in December, and the jobless rate held steady at 4.1%, and average hourly earnings advanced 3.9% from a year ago, according to the monthly report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

For the full year 2024, payrolls expanded at an average monthly pace of 186,000, totaling 2.2 million, lower than the 251,000 monthly rate totaling 3.0 million in 2023. 

The labor force participation rate, at 62.5%, was unchanged over the month and has remained in a narrow range of 62.5% to 62.7% since December 2023. 

The employment-population ratio, at 60.0%, changed little over the month and over the year.

 

U.S. Indexes and Treasury Yields

The S&P 500 index decreased 0.8% to 5,867.83, the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.0% to 19,272.05, and the Russell 2000 index inched down by 0.4% to 2,238.93. 

The yield on 2-year Treasury notes edged higher to 4.36%, 10-year Treasury notes inched up to 4.76%, and 30-year Treasury bonds increased to 4.98%.

WTI crude oil increased $2.86 to $76.80 a barrel, and natural gas prices edged up 13 cents to $3.83 a thermal unit.

Gold increased by $10.70 to $2,680.61 an ounce, and silver rose by $0.15 to $30.24. 

The dollar index, which weighs the US currency against a basket of foreign currencies, decreased by 0.03 to 109.13 and traded at a two-year high. 

 

U.S. Stock Movers 

Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. increased 14.4% to $10.55 after the pharmacy chain operator reported better-than-expected quarterly results. 

Delta Air Lines Inc. gained 7% to $65.71 after the company reported better-than-expected quarterly results, and the company guided strong earnings and free cash flow in 2025. 

Revenue in the December quarter increased to $1.7 billion from $1.3 billion, net income decreased to $843 million from $2.03 billion, and diluted earnings per share fell to $1.29 from $3.67 a year ago. 

The company guided continued increases in revenue and higher demand for its premium products in 2025 and estimated pre-tax income of more than $6 billion, earnings per share of at least $7.35, and free cash flow to surpass $4 billion.