Forefront Market Notes: February 18th

Stocks advanced last week despite some intra-week volatility as investors showed concern about the economy’s strength. 

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 1.47 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 2.58 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.55 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, tacked on 2.53 percent.^1,2

The Fed Is in “No Hurry”

Stocks opened the week higher, quickly discounting news that the White House would impose 25 percent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports. Tuesday was a volatility session, punctuated by comments from Fed Chair Powell, who told lawmakers the central bank doesn’t “need to be in a hurry” to lower interior rates further.^3,4

Stocks opened lower Wednesday after a warmer-than-expected update on consumer prices. But stocks showed some resilience and rallied throughout the day. The Nasdaq managed to claw back its losses before Wednesday’s close.⁵

On Thursday, the White House announced a plan for reciprocal tariffs (levies on goods imported into the U.S. from countries that impose tariffs on U.S.-exported goods). But markets rallied on news that the administration would pause tariffs until they determine how much to levy on each country. Stocks took a breather on Friday, shrugging off a weaker-than-expected retail sales report.

The S&P ended shy of a record close, and the Nasdaq finished the week above the 20,000 mark.⁶

 

^{Source: YCharts.com, February 15, 2025. Weekly performance is measured from Monday, February 10, to Friday, February 14. TR = total return for the index, which includes any dividends as well as any other cash distributions during the period. Treasury note yield is expressed in basis points.}

 

Inflation in Focus

The Consumer Price Index report showed prices rose 0.5 percent in January–slightly hotter than expected. Shelter costs remained elevated, increasing 0.4 percent for the month.

Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, was also above forecast. Food prices rose 0.4 percent, pushed by a 15.2 percent increase in egg prices related to ongoing issues forcing farmers to cull chicken flocks. Energy prices picked up 1.1 percent as gasoline prices rose.^7,8

 

You May Be Able to File Your State and Federal Tax Returns for Free

 

Taxpayers whose adjusted gross income is $79,000 or less may be able to file their federal taxes for free using IRS Free File and do their state taxes at no charge through the same service. More than 20 states have a Free File program similar to the federal service.

IRS Free File partners also feature several helpful online products. Through Free File, taxpayers can choose the Free File option, guided tax preparation, or Free File Fillable Forms. Make sure to filter for the free options because some additional services may have a charge.

*This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS⁹

 

Footnotes and Sources