Weekly Market Insights | Investors Read Inflation Risk in Job Numbers

Stocks fell for the second consecutive week as a round of fresh economic data stoked inflationary fears among investors.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.94 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 2.34 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.86 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, slipped 0.49 percent.1,2

Inflation Stymies Markets

Stocks rallied broadly to start the week, but two economic reports on Tuesday—job openings and the prices-paid index among service companies—raised fresh inflation concerns. Higher Treasury yields also put pressure on stocks.3,4

Stocks flattened out on Wednesday. Investors reacted to news that most Federal Open Market Committee members agreed inflation risks had increased, per minutes from the Fed’s December meeting.5,6

U.S. stock markets were closed Thursday in observance of President Jimmy Carter’s funeral.

On Friday, a warmer-than-expected December jobs report caused investors to question whether the Fed will adjust rates in 2025. News that consumer sentiment ticked down also pushed stocks lower.7

 
 

When Good Becomes Bad News

The economy added 256,000 jobs in December—100,000 more than economists expected. That’s the second-highest monthly job gain for 2024. Unemployment ticked down to 4.1 percent, which was also better than anticipated.

Job growth and lower unemployment signals good news for the economy but bad news for the markets. A stronger jobs market puts less pressure on the Fed to adjust rates, especially with inflation top-of-mind among investors.8,9

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: Treasury Statement.

Tuesday: Producer Price Index. Fed officials Jeffrey Schmid and John Williams speak.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index. Fed officials Thomas Barkin, Neel Kashkari, John Williams, and Austan Goolsbee speak. Fed Beige Book.

Thursday: Retail Sales. Import and Export Prices. Business Inventories. Homebuilder Confidence Index.

Friday: Housing Starts and Permits. Industrial Production.

Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; January 9, 2025
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Wednesday: JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM), Wells Fargo & Company (WFC), BlackRock, Inc. (BLK), Citigroup Inc. (C), The Charles Schwab Corporation (SCHW)

Thursday: UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH), Bank of America Corporation (BAC), Morgan Stanley (MS)

Source: Zacks, January 9, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for. And the most you can do is live inside that hope. Not admire it from a distance but live right in it, under its roof.”

– Barbara Kingsolver

Self-Employed Tax Obligations

There are a few tax considerations to consider when you work for yourself. Generally, you’re required to file and pay estimated taxes during the year.

  • Make quarterly payments if you’ve determined you need to use Form 11040-ES.
  • Filing annually: If you’re filing annually, you must use Schedule C to report income or loss. To file your Social Security and Medicare taxes, you should file Schedule SE Form 1040.
  • Deductions: If you’re using part of your home for business, you may be able to make certain deductions, such as for your office or a portion of your home’s square footage used for business purposes.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS10

Restorative Yoga: Long and Easy Stretching

Whether you have been curious about yoga but have never tried it, or if you're a seasoned yogi looking for something new, restorative yoga has something for everyone. This gentle yoga uses props like blocks, blankets, and straps. Stretches and poses are held for a longer time, yielding many benefits. Here are a few ways that restorative yoga can be beneficial for many people:

  • It can help with neck, lower back, hip, and shoulder pain
  • It can help with insomnia
  • All ages widely practice it, and modifications are available
  • It can relax the mind and help with anxiety
  • It may help to cope with serious illnesses and life events
  • It may improve respiratory and circulatory function

Check your local yoga studios or gyms to enroll in a restorative yoga class. If you can’t find one, there are online yoga courses you can try. It might be a stretch worth taking (ask your doctor if yoga might be right for you).

Tip adapted from Mindbodygreen.com11

Dave is at the hardware store to buy something for his house. Yesterday, he bought 1 for $1. The week before, he purchased 10 for $2, and his friend bought 100 for $3. Today, he bought 907 for $3. If the prices haven’t changed, how is this possible?

Last week’s riddle: David put on a white shirt with three large holes in it and went to the grocery store. No one gave him a funny look; no one objected to it. What kind of shirt was David wearing? Answer: A white t-shirt (the holes were the collar and sleeves of the shirt)

Surprise Glacier

Prince William Sound, Alaska

Footnotes and Sources

1. The Wall Street Journal, January 10, 2025

2. Investing.com, January 10, 2025

3. CNBC.com, January 6, 2025

4. The Wall Street Journal, January 7, 2025

5. CNBC.com, January 8, 2025

6. MarketWatch.com, January 8, 2025

7. CNBC.com, January 10, 2025

8. The Wall Street Journal, January 10, 2025

9. TradingEconomics.com, January 10, 2025

10. IRS.gov, September 30, 2024

11. Mindbodygreen.com, October 3, 2024

Weekly Market Insights | Stocks Decline Slightly as New Year Dawns

Stocks edged lower last week despite a powerful end-of-week rally.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.48 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 0.51 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.60 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, dropped 0.90 percent.1,2

Selling Then Buying

Stocks were under pressure right out of the gate on Monday for no apparent reason other than worries over the loss of year-end momentum. By the end of trading on Monday, markets recovered some losses, but the selling picked up again on Tuesday.3,4

After being closed for the New Year’s holiday, stocks opened higher for the first trading day of 2025. But sellers gained the upper hand by the end of trading. On Friday, Investors perked up with tech stocks leading a recovery rally that erased most of the week’s losses.5,6

 
 

Megacap’s Mega Influence

Megacap tech stocks have captured many headlines over the last two years as the S&P 500 posted double-digit returns (24 percent for 2023 and 23 percent for 2024).

And for a good reason—megacap tech stocks were doing most of the work. For example, during the past 12 months of trading, more than half (53 percent) of the S&P 500’s return can be attributed to the Magnificent Seven–the seven megacap tech companies that most investors would consider household names.7

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: Fed Official Lisa Cook speaks. Factory Orders.

Tuesday: Fed Official Thomas Barkin speaks. International Trade in Goods and Services.

Wednesday: FOMC Minutes released. ADP Employment Report. Fed Official Christopher Waller speaks.

Thursday: Stock market closed for President Carter’s state funeral.

Friday: Employment Situation. Consumer Sentiment.

Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; January 3, 2025
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Wednesday: Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (JEF)

Thursday: Infosys (INFY), Constellation Brands Inc. (STZ)

Friday: Bank of America Corporation (BAC), Wells Fargo & Company (WFC), BlackRock, Inc. (BLK), Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL)

Source: Zacks, January 3, 2025. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“The biggest disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis, but rather the feeling of being unwanted.”

– Mother Teresa

Tips for Good Recordkeeping

When you file your tax return, the first step is to prepare your records. Good recordkeeping throughout the year can make filing your taxes easier. 

Here are some recordkeeping tips:

  • Identify all sources of income.
  • Keep track of expenses.
  • Add tax records to your files as you receive them to make filing easier. 
  • Organize support items that you may need to clarify your tax return. 

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS8

How to Drink More Water Throughout the Day

Drinking enough water is essential to keep you feeling your best. While there aren’t any strict rules on exactly how much water you should drink, you should listen to your body to ensure you’re getting enough. 

Here are some tips on how to drink more water throughout the day:

  • Keep a reusable water bottle with you, saving plastic and making drinking water more convenient (and fun). 
  • Set reminders on your phone to drink water, or “anchor” drinking water to other habits throughout your day (for example, drink some water at the end of every meeting).
  • Replace other drinks, such as coffee and soda, with water.
  • Drink a glass of water before every meal.
  • Flavor your water with fruit or healthy water enhancers.

Tip adapted from Healthline9

David put on a white shirt with three large holes in it and went to the grocery store. No one gave him a funny look; no one objected to it. What kind of shirt was David wearing?

Last week’s riddle: Throughout Friday, Hanna asks her mother the same four-word question. On each occasion, her mother gives her a different answer. What is the question?
Answer: "What time is it?"

Surfing Pulau Panaitan

Jakarta, Banten, Indonesia

 

Footnotes and Sources

1. The Wall Street Journal, January 3, 2025

2. Investing.com, January 3, 2025

3. CNBC.com, December 30, 2024

4. The Wall Street Journal, December 31, 2024

5. CNBC.com, January 2, 2025

6. CNBC.com, January 3, 2025

7.  The Wall Street Journal, December 31, 2024

8. IRS.gov, October 2, 2024

9. Healthline, October 3, 2024

Weekly Market Insights | Holiday Spending Up

Stocks notched a slight gain over the holiday week. A tech-driven rally in the first half of the week was clawed back in the second half as investors took profits following the market holiday.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.67 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index rose 0.76 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.35 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, rose 1.54 percent.1,2

Ho-Ho, Then No-Go

Stocks rallied during the first half of a shortened holiday trading week. Holiday cheer won out despite news of declining consumer confidence in December, a drop in durable goods, and new home sales reporting below expectations.3,4

The “Santa rally” lost its ho-ho-go after the midweek holiday. Megacap technology stocks led markets down on Friday, giving back most of the gains from the first half of the week.4,5

The Real Santa

While Santa got the headlines, the consumer drove the holiday shopping sleigh this year.

Holiday spending—defined by the period from November 1 through December 24—rose 3.8 percent in 2024, compared with 3.1 percent in 2023. Economists closely follow consumer activity since consumer spending makes up roughly two-thirds of total gross domestic product. Market watchers attributed the strong job market and growth in household wealth as the primary drivers of consumer strength.6

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: Pending Home Sales. 3-Month Treasury Bill Auction.

Tuesday: Case-Shiller Home Price Index.

Wednesday: Stock market closed.

Thursday: Jobless Claims. EIA Petroleum Status Report. Fed Balance Sheet. 30-Year Treasury Bond Announcement.

Friday: Motor Vehicle Sales. ISM Manufacturing Index. Federal Reserve Officials Thomas Barkin and Mary Daly speak.

Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; December 27, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Friday: The Greenbrier Companies, Inc. (GBX)

Source: Zacks, December 27, 2024. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“The strongest of all warriors are these two — Time and Patience.”

– Leo Tolstoy

Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Your Hobby?

Whether you picked up embroidering, dog grooming, or making jewelry, a side hobby may or may not require paying taxes.

Does your kids' lemonade stand need to pay taxes? Probably not but if you're doing something like selling cookies out of your kitchen, you might need to check out the rules.

Here are some things to consider when determining whether your activity is a hobby or business:

  • Is your hobby carried out in a businesslike manner?
  • Do you maintain complete and accurate books and records for your hobby?
  • Is the effort you put into your hobby intended to make a profit?
  • Do you depend on the income from your hobby for your livelihood?
  • Do you know how to carry out your hobby as a successful business?
  • Have you made a profit from your hobby?

If you receive income from your hobby with no intention of making a profit, you may have to report the income to the IRS.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS7

How Well Do You Know Your Sunburn Protection Factor?

We all know that protecting your skin from the sun is important, but did you know that not all sunscreens are made equal? Dermatologists have some specific recommendations when it comes to your Sunburn Protection Factor (SPF). Here are some tips:

  • Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from both UVB and UVA rays.
  • Always use at least SPF 30
  • Choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
  • Don’t forget your lips! Apply sunscreen to your lips or use a chapstick with SPF 30 or higher.
  • Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours if you’re sweating a lot in the water.
  • Apply enough sunscreen to cover all skin that clothing will not cover. Most adults need about 1 ounce—or enough to fill a shot glass—to cover their bodies completely.
  • Apply your sunscreen 15 minutes before going outdoors.

These tips will help you choose the best sunscreen to protect your skin for years.

Tip adapted from American Academy of Dermatology8

Throughout Friday, Hanna asks her mother the same four-word question. On each occasion, her mother gives her a different answer. What is the question?

Last week’s riddle: It softly goes up and down the stairs in many homes and office buildings, yet it never moves. What could it be?
Answer: Carpet.

Delicate Arch 

Arches National Park, Utah, USA

 

Footnotes and Sources

1. The Wall Street Journal, December 27, 2024

2. Investing.com, December 27, 2024

3. MarketWatch.com, December 23, 2024

4. CNBC.com, December 26, 2024

5. The Wall Street Journal, December 27, 2024

6. MarketWatch.com, December 26, 2024

7. IRS.gov, March 18, 2024

8. American Academy of Dermatology, August 1, 2024

Weekly Market Insights | Powell Signal Leaves Investors Cold

Weekly Market Insights | Mixed Data, Mixed Results.

Stocks finished the week mixed, bookending losses around midweek gains as investors digested fresh inflation data.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.64 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index ticked up 0.34 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 1.82 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, slid 1.48 percent.1,2

Up and Down Week

Stocks fell broadly over the first part of the week. Leading chipmakers who produce semiconductors for artificial intelligence applications were under pressure after Chinese regulators announced an antimonopoly investigation.3

Investors breathed a sigh of relief Wednesday morning following news that consumer inflation in November was in line with expectations. Mega-cap tech stocks led the rally, with the Nasdaq closing above 20,000 for the first time. Meanwhile, the Dow fell as healthcare stocks came under pressure.4

Stocks remained in the trading range for the rest of the week on mild concerns about Thursday’s warmer-than-expected wholesale inflation report and a spending slowdown among lower-income consumers. The Dow registered its worst losing streak since 2020.5,6,7

 
 

Final Fed Meeting of 2024

The consumer price index ticked up to 2.7 percent on an annualized basis in November, as expected. The market’s rally following the news reflected investor relief that inflation met expectations and that the increase from the prior month was slight.

Those two factors may reinforce the belief that the Fed would follow through with the December rate adjustment, which it penciled in back in September. The bellwether inflation measure was the last critical data point before the Fed’s two-day meeting, scheduled to end on December 18.8

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) Meeting Begins. Retail Sales. Industrial Production. Business Inventories.

Wednesday: Housing Starts and Permits. FOMC Announcement. Fed Chair Press Conference.

Thursday: Gross Domestic Product. Existing Home Sales. Weekly Jobless Claims.

Friday: Personal Income and Outlays. Consumer Sentiment.

Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; December 10, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Wednesday: Micron Technology, Inc. (MU)

Thursday: NIKE, Inc. (NKE), Cintas Corporation (CTAS), FedEx Corporation (FDX), Paychex Inc. (PAYX)

Source: Zacks, December 10, 2024. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“Who are wise in love, love most, say least.”

– Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Have You Created Your IRS Online Account?

The IRS makes it easy to create an online account where you can view all kinds of account information, such as:

  • Your payoff amount
  • The balance if you owe taxes
  • Your payment history
  • Key information from your most current tax return
  • Payment plan details if you have one
  • Select IRS notices
  • Economic payments (if you have any)
  • Your address on file with the IRS

You can even pay online and receive a digital copy of your most recent tax return transcript.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS9

A “Berry” Important Superfood

Not only are blueberries delicious, but they are also a powerful superfood that has many potential health benefits. They are low in calories, can be added to countless dishes, and are the perfect easy snack. Here are some benefits of blueberries, according to Healthline:

  • They are high in fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Manganese (all important nutrients)
  • They are high in antioxidants
  • They may help lower blood pressure, according to one study by PubMed Central
  • They may help maintain brain function and improve memory based on their antioxidant levels (according to a study by the National Institute of Health
  • They may reduce muscle damage after exercise and improve inflammation.

Tip adapted from Healthline10

It is in seconds, seasons, centuries, and minutes, but you won’t find it in years, decades, or days. What is it?

Last week’s riddle: I have a bank, yet no cash. I can run, but can’t walk. I have a bed but never sleep. I have a mouth, but ingest no meals. What am I? Answer: A river.

Hong Kong Harbor

Hong Kong, China

 

Footnotes and Sources

1. The Wall Street Journal, December 13, 2024

2. Investing.com, December 13, 2024

3. CNBC.com, December 10, 2024

4. The Wall Street Journal, December 11, 2024

5. The Wall Street Journal, December 12, 2024

6. CNBC.com, December 13, 2024

7. The Wall Street Journal, December 13, 2024

8. The Wall Street Journal, December 11, 2024

9.. IRS.gov, August 1, 2024

10. Healthline, August 1, 2024

Weekly Market Insights | Markets Mixed; Jobs Back on Track

Stocks were mixed during the first trading week of December. Technology stocks led, while the widely followed Dow Jones Industrial Average struggled. 

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 3.34 percent while the Dow Industrials lost 0.60 percent. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index added 0.96 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, gained 1.46 percent.1,2

Tech Takes Charge

The S&P and Nasdaq rallied to start the week, closing at record highs Monday and Tuesday. The Dow fell on both days. During a conference speech, Fed governor Christopher Waller said he supports a rate adjustment in December for now, which seemed to add momentum to the S&P’s and Nasdaq’s gains.3,4

Tech shares continued to propel stock gains midweek on the strength of a few better-than-expected Q3 reports.5 

On Friday, the S&P and Nasdaq hit new record highs following the November jobs report. Both notched their third consecutive winning week. By contrast, the Dow was down four of the five trading days, ending the week in the red after two back-to-back weekly gains.6,7,8

 
 

Jobs Rebound

After two hurricanes and an aircraft maker strike weighed on the labor market in October, the November jobs report released Friday gave investors what they were looking for: confirmation that the October update was an anomaly.

While November payrolls topped expectations, investors believed the hotter-than-expected report would not influence the Fed’s upcoming decision regarding short-term interest rates. The Fed’s scheduled two-day meeting ends on December 18.9

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: Productivity and Costs.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index (CPI). 10-Year Treasury Note Auction. Treasury Statement.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Producer Price Index (PPI). Fed Balance Sheet.

Friday: Import and Export Prices.

Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; December 6, 2024
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Monday: Oracle Corporation (ORCL)

Tuesday: AutoZone, Inc. (AZO)

Wednesday: Adobe, Inc. (ADBE)

Thursday: Broadcom Inc. (AVGO), Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)

Source: Zacks, December 6, 2024. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.

“Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.”

– Helen Keller

Beware of the Fake Charity Scam

There are so many scams out there. One of the most heartless is taking advantage of people who want to give money to a legitimate charity, especially after a tragedy or disaster. Scammers can set up fake organizations to take advantage of people’s generosity. 

These scams are usually over the phone, and while the organization may sound legitimate, the person on the other end might demand a donation immediately. Remember, a charity will happily receive a donation anytime, so you shouldn’t feel pressured. 

You can research charity organizations using the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool—this will help you narrow down a list of legitimate charities. You may even be able to claim a deduction on your tax return.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS10

How to Understand Your Blood Pressure Readings

Understanding your blood pressure readings is important, especially if you are at a greater risk for high blood pressure. Here are the ranges you should know, according to the American Heart Association:

  • Normal ranges are less than 120 for systolic mmHg (the top number in the reading) and less than 80 for diastolic mmHg (the lower number)
  • Elevated ranges are 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
  • High blood pressure (hypertension) stage 1 ranges are 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic
  • High blood pressure (hypertension) stage 2 ranges are 140  or higher systolic or 90 or higher diastolic
  • Hypertensive crisis (a medical emergency) ranges are higher than 180 for systolic and higher than 120 for diastolic

 

Tip adapted from American Heart Association11

I have a bank, yet no cash. I can run, but can’t walk. I have a bed but never sleep. I have a mouth, but ingest no meals. What am I?

Last week’s riddle: What has one eye and yet can’t see?

Answer: A sewing needle.

The Shard

Bermondsey, London, United Kingdom

 

Footnotes and Sources

1. The Wall Street Journal, December 6, 2024

2. Investing.com, December 6, 2024

3. CNBC.com, December 2, 2024

4. MarketWatch.com, December 3, 2024

5. CNBC.com, December 4, 2024

6. MarketWatch.com, December 5, 2024

7. MarketWatch.com, December 6, 2024

8. The Wall Street Journal, December 6, 2024

9. The Wall Street Journal, December 6, 2024

10. IRS.gov, April 4, 2024

11. American Heart Association, August 1, 2024

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