Santa Claus is leaving investors in the lurch once again in 2024 as U.S. stocks have struggled during the typically bullish home stretch of the year.

Key Takeaways The traditional “Santa Claus Rally” failed to materialize this year. Major indices like the S&P 500 and FTSE 100 experienced declines in December instead of the expected seasonal boost.

Stocks are stumbling into the end of the year. After falling 1% on Friday, markets are indicated lower by another 1% in premarket trading.