28. Weekly Market Recap: Key Movements & Insights

📉From Peaks to Pullback: S&P 500's Week Reflects Global Uncertainties

Global Tensions Test Market Resilience as S&P 500 Ends Week Lower

The S&P 500 began the week on a strong note, hitting new all-time highs on Tuesday and Wednesday, but momentum faded as inflation concerns resurfaced. Investors initially welcomed the release of the January FOMC meeting minutes, reaffirming the Federal Reserve's commitment to keeping interest rates steady until further progress on inflation and employment is achieved. However, sentiment turned cautious on Thursday following Walmart's weak earnings report, highlighting slowing sales. The week ended with a sharp sell-off on Friday, driven by fresh economic data suggesting inflation remains a persistent challenge.

China-based stocks provided a bright spot, with Alibaba surging over 15% on strong earnings, boosting the broader technology sector. Sector performance was mixed, with energy minerals, electronic technology, and communications leading the gains, while retail trade, commercial services, and health services lagged. I…