📈 Stocks / Finance

Credit card defaults reach 14-year high amid economic strain

PYMNTS

Credit card defaults surged to $46 billion in 2024, a 50% increase from 2023, driven by elevated inflation and higher borrowing costs. Capital One reported a 6.1% write-off rate, while Federal Reserve data showed U.S. credit card debt climbing to $5.113 trillion in October.

Wall Street dips amid profit-taking and thin holiday trading

Reuters

U.S. equities fell in light holiday trading as investors locked in gains from 2024’s strong performance. The S&P 500 dropped 1.07%, the Nasdaq 1.19%, and the Dow 0.97%. Technology and AI stocks, including Nvidia, surged this year, while materials lagged. Treasury yields and 2025 uncertainty drove risk-off sentiment.

ETF assets surpass $10 trillion as alternative ETFs grow rapidly

CNBC

U.S. ETF assets hit $10 trillion in November, led by $156 billion in monthly inflows. Alternative ETFs saw 93% YoY growth, driven by digital assets. S&P 500 ETFs dominated flows, buoyed by "Magnificent Seven" stocks. Crypto ETFs surged, with bitcoin ETFs topping new offerings for 2024.

🪙 Crypto

MicroStrategy adds $209M in Bitcoin, now holds $41B

Decrypt

MicroStrategy purchased another $209M in Bitcoin, bringing its total holdings to 446,400 BTC valued at $41B. Acquired at an average of $62,428 per BTC since 2020, the firm has achieved a 74.1% YTD yield. Founder Michael Saylor stated the company plans to ‘keep buying the top forever.’

🌎 Global Economy

Global markets poised for cautious gains in 2025 amid trade war fears

The Guardian

Global stock markets are expected to rise in 2025, with S&P 500 forecasts ranging from 6,400 to 7,000 points, though UK and EU markets may lag. Analysts cite inflation, limited rate cuts, and potential trade conflicts under Trump as risks. Commodities may decline, except for gold, seen as a safe haven.

Start learning AI in 2025

Everyone talks about AI, but no one has the time to learn it. So, we found the easiest way to learn AI in as little time as possible: The Rundown AI.

It's a free AI newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on the latest AI news, and teaches you how to apply it in just 5 minutes a day.

Plus, complete the quiz after signing up and they’ll recommend the best AI tools, guides, and courses – tailored to your needs.

Sign up to start learning.

🗞️ Other Newsletters You Might Like

Essential stock market insights every day before the bell rings.