Despite the persistence of Covid-19, the stock market was record-setting in 2021 - the S&P 500 rose 26.89%, the Dow Jones was up 18.73% and the Nasdaq gained 21.39%. Both, Energy and Real Estate stocks surged more than 40% and Technology and Financials stocks rose more than 30% each. Now, going into 2022, many investors expect tougher market conditions with less government stimulus and continued high inflation.
Economic reports from last week came back mostly positive: •Manufacturing (Dallas) - worse than expectation •Manufacturing (Richmond) - better than expectation •Home Values - better than expectation •Pending Home Sales - worse than expectation •Jobless Claims - better than expectation This week, investors will look for guidance from economic reports like Construction Spending, Job Openings, Vehicle Sales, Employment, Consumer Credit and Jobless Claims.