Stocks Take Breather After Big 2023 Gains, Though Long-Term Outlook Still Positive
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Consolidation is natural after big gains in late 2023; stocks don't move in a straight line up.
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Fears that central banks may be less dovish than expected and won't cut rates as soon as markets anticipated.
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Disrupted Middle East shipping routes spark inflation concerns, though escalation seems unlikely.
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Investors may be taking profits early in the new year after big 2023 gains.
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Despite short-term turbulence, the long-term outlook remains constructive for stocks.