This week’s Money Wise episode takes a step back to assess where markets stand as the year winds down and the Santa Claus rally remains firmly in focus. With a holiday-shortened trading week and lighter volume, the S&P 500 edged closer to a new all-time closing high, supported by strong performance over the final five trading days of December. The guys discuss why late-year seasonality still matters and how recent gains align with historical Santa Claus rally patterns.
Beyond market action, the conversation shifts to the broader economic backdrop. Despite incomplete and delayed data from the recent government shutdown, key indicators point to continued momentum: third-quarter GDP growth came in at a strong 4.3%, savings rates are rising toward 5%, and consumer spending remains a major driver of economic expansion. The Money Wise guys push back on narratives suggesting growth is narrowly driven by AI infrastructure, emphasizing that consumer activity continues to power a significant share of GDP. With year-end optimism intact and early 2026 catalysts on the horizon, the episode reinforces why long-term perspective matters, especially when headlines focus more on costs than growth.
The Santa Claus Rally
A Santa Claus rally refers to the market’s historical tendency to rise during the final trading days of December and the first few days of January. This period is often supported by seasonal optimism, lighter trading volumes, and investors repositioning portfolios for the year ahead. When it occurs, it can help improve overall market sentiment and reinforce confidence after a full year of trading. A strong year-end rally may also provide momentum as markets enter the new year. While not guaranteed, it’s a pattern investors often watch closely as a gauge of near-term market tone.
In the second hour, the Money Wise guys explore RIA vs. Broker. You don’t want to miss the details! Tune in for the full discussion on your favorite podcast provider or at davidsoncap.com, where you can also learn more about the Money Wise guys or take advantage of a portfolio review and analysis with Davidson Capital Management.
