‘Trump Bump’ in Stocks Fades Amid Rising Economic Anxiety

Published On Feb 28, 2025, 12:13 PM

The stock market initially surged following President Trump's election due to expectations of tax cuts and deregulation. However, this optimism is fading as concerns about inflation rise, particularly with new tariffs imposed on foreign goods. The S&P 500 index has recently experienced a notable decline, expected to record its worst week of the year. Investors are increasingly cautious due to declining consumer sentiment and the potential for prolonged high inflation affecting economic growth.

Stock Forecasts

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Negative

Given the recent decline in consumer sentiment and increased concerns around inflation and tariffs, investor sentiment is likely to remain bearish in the short term. Technology stocks, which previously led the market rally, have shown weakness, contributing to the downward pressure on the S&P 500. Traders should be mindful of the economic impacts of tariffs and the Federal Reserve's interest rate stance.

Related News

Ongoing tariff threats from Washington and potentially sweeping government job cuts have darkened consumers’ mood and may be weighing on an otherwise mostly healthy economy. Data released Wednesday showed that consumers slashed their spending by the most since February 2021, even as their incomes rose. On a positive note, inflation cooled, but President Donald Trump’s threats to impose large import taxes on Canada, Mexico, and China -- the United States’ top trading partners -- will likely push prices higher, economists say.

Investors are waiting for the release of the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge as they eye Trump’s latest trade threats.

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The latest reading of the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge showed prices rose on a monthly basis but dropped year over year, which should keep the central bank on hold at its next meeting in March.