Discover how markets defied forecasts and shaped investor strategies.

Key Takeaways

• Despite high interest rates and rising unemployment, the U.S. economy grew by approximately a robust 2.9% in 2024, powered by resilient consumer spending.
• Traditional economic indicators consistently signaled contraction, yet the economy continued to expand, driven in part by a dominant U.S. services sector.
• Even with tighter monetary policy, easy financial conditions prevailed and AI enthusiasm sent tech valuations soaring.
• The economy and markets’ unpredictability in 2024 highlights the importance of actively managing risks in your portfolio.