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It was a rollercoaster start to the year for U.S. equities. A sell-off in Japanese government bonds coupled with tariff-related tensions on January 20th contributed to the S&P 500's worst single-day drop since October 2025 while the VIX® rose above the 20 mark. Still, the market marched upwards, with The 500® hitting all-time highs and closing the month up 1%, despite a pullback during the final two trading days of the month. Disappointing reactions to Big Tech earnings, fresh inflation jitters and concerns over the announcement of the new Federal Reserve chair put a damper on sentiment.

The Week In Perspective combines market activity, financial events, commentary and analysis for individual investors—Check-in weekly for the most current happenings.

The S&P 500 is increasingly concentrated in technology stocks, creating hidden diversification risks for investors who rely on traditional index exposure.

The Week In Perspective combines market activity, financial events, commentary and analysis for individual investors—Check-in weekly for the most current happenings.

U.S. equity markets capped 2025 with double-digit gains for the third year in a row, witnessing one of the most rapid recoveries on record after approaching the precipice of bear market territory in early April. Regardless of the poor prospects of a Santa Claus rally, the S&P 500® gained 18% and posted 39 record closing highs, amid geopolitical, tariff and inflation-related tensions coupled with a government shutdown and labor market concerns.

This year reminded investors that patience, diversification, and long-term strategy matter more than predictions. Here are five investment lessons to carry into 2026.