Bill Stone

The proximate cause of the decline has been an economic growth scare and policy uncertainty. Financial data, stocks, bonds, and tariffs are reviewed to judge the threat.

Warren Buffett is a gifted teacher who explains complex topics in a digestible format. This year he touched on Berkshire Hathaway’s massive cash hoard, among other items.

Berkshire Hathaway’s operating earnings grew sharply in 2024. After a ninth straight quarter of selling stocks, Warren Buffett’s cash hoard is above $334 billion.

Earnings season has 45 companies scheduled. Berkshire Hathaway’s earnings and Warren Buffett’s annual letter are scheduled for the holiday-shortened week.

Berkshire Hathaway’s $267 billion concentrated 38-stock portfolio added one new stock. Warren Buffett was likely a net seller of stocks for the ninth straight quarter.

Earnings growth has been robust, but AI growth didn’t match elevated expectations. President Trump’s threat of reciprocal tariffs should add to market volatility.

Despite supportive earnings, DeepSeek shocked technology stocks. In the busiest week of the earnings season, tariffs and the jobs report could add to market volatility.

The second busiest week of earnings season includes four of the Magnificent 7. Chair Powell’s comments will be more important for markets than the Fed's rate decision.

Better bank earnings and inflation readings sent bond and stock prices higher. Earnings and politics will likely have the most significant impact on markets this week.

Stocks and bonds declined in response to much better-than-expected job growth. This week's CPI report could further pressure yields.