As 2024 winds down, right now is a good time to take stock — no pun intended — of your investment portfolio.

The stock market has had a nice ride of late, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite closing at record highs earlier in December (see this chart of the S&P 500). As the end of the year approaches, though, the market seems to have shifted into snooze mode. Let’s hope it’s short, since we are amid the Santa Claus Rally and it would be nice to see the market eke out a small gain from December 24 to January 3. Otherwise, as stated in the Stock Trader’s Almanac, “If Santa Claus should fail to call, bears may come to Broad and Wall.” We’ll post the gain (or loss) of this year’s Santa Claus rally in next week’s ChartWatchers Newsletter.

In the meantime, check out this week’s collection of articles and videos. Trading may have been light, but the market’s performance in the next few days and January will lay the groundwork for next year’s price action. Let’s hope it’s positive.

Last, but certainly not least, our holiday special ends on January 1, which is just a couple of days away. If you haven’t done so, this is the best time to sign up or renew your membership. It’s a deal you definitely won’t want to miss.