What to Watch in the Stock Market Today

What to Watch in the Stock Market Today

1️⃣ Analysts Predict More Stock Market Gains in 2025

After a strong 2024, with the Nasdaq up 29%, the S&P 500 rising 23%, and the Dow Jones climbing 13%, analysts are cautiously optimistic about 2025. Growth may slow compared to last year, but sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) will likely remain key drivers. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks are also expected to perform well this year.

2️⃣ U.S. Stock Futures Start 2025 on a Positive Note

Stock futures are pointing higher as markets reopen after the New Year's holiday. Nasdaq futures are up 1.2%, while S&P 500 and Dow Jones futures show smaller gains. Oil and gold prices are rising, and 10-year Treasury yields are down. Investors are also watching for key economic data on jobless claims and construction spending.

3️⃣ Tesla’s Cybertruck Incident & Delivery Update

A Tesla Cybertruck exploded in Las Vegas near the Trump International Hotel, killing one and injuring seven. Police are investigating the cause. Meanwhile, Tesla is set to release its Q4 delivery numbers today, which are expected to hit record highs but may fall short of its full-year forecast. Tesla shares are up 1.5% in premarket trading despite a 12.6% decline over the past four sessions.

4️⃣ Tech Giants Poised to Lead Again in 2025

The "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks—Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Tesla—are expected to continue driving markets in 2025, albeit at a slower pace. Analysts project this group will outperform the rest of the S&P 500 by 7 percentage points, the narrowest margin in seven years. Nvidia leads the pack with a 1.6% premarket gain, and the other six are also trending upward.

5️⃣ Bitcoin Surge Boosts Crypto Stocks

Bitcoin is up over 2%, trading above $96,500, pushing crypto-related stocks higher. MicroStrategy shares are up 4% in premarket trading after a tough four-day stretch where they lost 19%. Crypto miners Riot Platforms and Mara Holdings, along with Coinbase, are also gaining nearly 4% early today.