U.S. and Global Markets Extend YTD Gains Amid Slowing Economic

Barry Adams
01 Dec, 2025
Mumbai

Wall Street indexes edged slightly higher on Monday, as investors braced for the final month of the year. 

The S&P 500 index increased 0.01%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite edged up 0.02% amid optimism that the Federal Reserve is more likely to deliver a rate cut next week. 

Benchmark indexes trimmed November's losses toward the end of the month, as investors returned to increase exposure to high-flying AI-linked stocks. 

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite closed down 1.5% in November and managed to rebound from a loss of 8% after Fed officials' comments suggested a possible rate cut this month. 

The S&P 500 index closed nearly unchanged in November and rebounded from the 5% loss by November 20 as the tech-powered market rally lifted the broader index. 

The path for benchmark indexes is uncertain as the year 2025 enters its final month of trading, and investors search for catalysts to sustain the recent market rebound. 

Global markets staged a sharp rebound as dip buyers returned in search of bargains. Crude oil prices declined for the second consecutive month in November, and gold traded at elevated prices amid uncertainties about the U.S. economy and monetary policy. 

Chinese tech companies accelerated fundraising through Hong Kong listings supported by a strong demand from foreign investors. 

Global markets are hovering near record highs, while the broader economy is flashing signals of exhausted middle- and lower-class families. 

Much-delayed U.S. economic data released last month confirmed trends in place for several quarters, and the K-shaped economy is increasingly driven by a narrow segment of consumers while most families are struggling to make ends meet.  

The top 12 financial markets from the Americas to Europe to Asia are up for the year so far, with the KOSPI index in Seoul leading world markets with a rise of 63%.