Analysis

Stock Market Could Rally by 24% Following Fed's Rate Cut, Analysts Predict

Published January 26, 2024

Analysts from Ned Davis Research suggest that the stock market may be on the cusp of a significant surge, potentially seeing gains of up to 24%, which would be in response to the Federal Reserve's decision to decrease interest rates for the first time since 2019.

Insight into the Prediction

According to Ed Clissold, chief U.S. strategist at Ned Davis Research, historical patterns show that the Dow Jones Industrial Average generally experiences an average increase of 15% following the Fed's inaugural rate cut. This rise could extend to 24% in scenarios where the economy stays clear of recession within a year of the cut. Clissold highlighted, "The Dow Jones Industrial Average has rallied more when a recession has not occurred within a year before or after the first cut."

Considering current economic indicators such as the reduction in inflation since its peak in mid-2022, and signals from the Federal Reserve on upcoming rate cuts, the market environment seems conducive to significant gains. Added to this, the strong GDP growth and the sturdy job market are providing investors with confidence that a recession may not be on the horizon.

Market Sentiment and Expert Views

There is a general sense of optimism around the stock market's potential, underscored by insights from various market experts. Joseph Wang, a former New York Fed trader, has shown a positive outlook on stocks over bonds, based on government stimulus and consumer spending. Investment firms like Richard Bernstein Advisors see this as a rare investment opportunity, with Deputy CIO Dan Suzuki indicating a shift in investment dynamics. On another front, Jim Cramer, the renowned market analyst, has been encouraging investors to leverage market anomalies which could prove profitable.

If market projections hold true, the Dow Jones could reach new heights, with some analysts like JC Parets from All Star Charts suggesting it could surge up to a historic 50,000 points, should other economic factors, such as a weaker U.S. dollar, also align.

Stocks, FederalReserve, Economy