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AI Anxiety and Metal Mayhem Shake U.S. Markets

U.S. stock futures stumbled as renewed doubts about the sustainability of the artificial‑intelligence boom rippled through financial markets. Tech-heavy benchmarks led the decline, with Nasdaq futures sliding and the S&P 500 also moving lower as investors reassessed whether AI-linked valuations have run too far, too fast. The unease wasn’t limited to equities. Precious metals experienced dramatic intraday swings, with gold and silver both whipsawing after a period of rapid gains. Traders pointed to shifting expectations around interest rates and safe‑haven demand as key drivers behind the volatility. The combination of tech-sector skepticism and commodity turbulence has created a tense backdrop for markets. While some investors see the pullback as a healthy reset, others worry it may signal deeper concerns about the durability of the recent rally. Markets now look ahead to upcoming economic data and corporate earnings for clearer direction.

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Tips for building your 2024 investment plan


As we enter the new year, it’s a good time to reevaluate your investment strategies and prepare for the evolving market conditions. Here are some tips to help you build a successful investment plan for 2024:

  • Reevaluate your investment strategies: Experts suggest that now is a good time to reevaluate your investment strategies and prepare for the evolving market conditions. Although Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem has said it is too early to consider rate cuts, the central bank could begin cutting interest rates as early as April or May, according to forecasts from TD. Falling interest rates will be the story of 2024, so it’s important to invest accordingly.
  • Consider low-cost dividend-focused index funds: Investing in low-cost dividend-focused index funds can help you generate passive income at a low cost for life.
  • Be cautious with GICs: Last year, many investors chose to park money in savings or a short-term Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), earning risk-free returns of 5 per cent or more. Although it was an effective strategy in a high-interest-rate environment, GIC rates are already falling, and completely opposite market forces are starting to take shape. Canadians looking to simply protect their cash in 2024 could be in for a “rough year,” potentially missing out on greater gains elsewhere.
  • Prepare for the evolving market conditions: With the market conditions evolving, it’s important to prepare for the changes. Falling interest rates will be the story of 2024, so it’s important to invest accordingly.


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