Two the Point — Easing into 2025: Balancing Growth and Opportunity
The U.S. economy begins the new year on solid footing, though signs of subtle moderation are emerging in both growth and the labor market. Key opportunities exist to stay diversified, as corporate earnings remain robust while the macro environment evolves.
Key Insights
- U.S. GDP growth in 2024 reached 3% at times but is projecting slower growth to just over 2% in 2025.
- The latest JOLTS report shows job openings rose by 259,000 last November to 8.1 million, the highest in six months, with notable gains in financial activities and professional services.
- The job quits rate fell to 1.9%, its lowest since 2020, indicating reduced labor market churn and easing wage pressures.
- Corporate earnings forecast growth by 13% in 2025, with the S&P 500 operating margin expected to hit a record 13.7%.
- The 2024 Q4 earnings season expects high single-digit growth (+9.6%), led by the communications and financial sectors.
- Revenue growth for Q4 is forecasted at 4.1%, reinforcing expectations for slower but steady economic expansion.