Markets delivered mixed signals this week, reminding investors that headline performance rarely tells the full story. For the week, the Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 1,223 points, or 2.5%, while the S\&P 500 edged lower by about 7 points, or 0.1%. The Nasdaq declined roughly 431 points, or 1.8%. On a year-to-date basis, the Dow is now up 4.3%, the S\&P 500 is up 1.3%, and the Nasdaq is down 0.9%.

From a technical standpoint, the conversation focuses on key market levels and investor behavior. The Dow closed above 50,000 for the first time in history, marking a notable milestone. Meanwhile, the S\&P 500 briefly dipped below its 50-day moving average before rebounding sharply on Friday, supported by improved consumer sentiment. That late-week rally was significant, representing the S\&P’s strongest single-day gain since April of last year, following the tariff-driven volatility at that time. Despite the rebound, resistance near the 7,000 level remains intact.

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The Money Wise guys also examine why weakness in the Nasdaq drew so much attention. After rising roughly 50% from its intraday lows earlier in the year to its October high, the index has struggled to regain momentum, particularly as software stocks faced renewed pressure. The guys caution against chasing speculative narratives, including claims that assets like Bitcoin serve as reliable hedges. Instead, the discussion reinforces a long-standing Money Wise principle: cash and active portfolio management remain practical tools for managing uncertainty, while speculation often introduces more risk than protection.

In the second hour, the Money Wise guys discuss Equity Index Annuities. You don’t want to miss the details! Tune in for the full discussion on your favorite podcast provider or at davidsoncap.com, where you can also learn more about the Money Wise guys or take advantage of a portfolio review and analysis with Davidson Capital Management.