SPX has rallied, VIX has fallen, and there’s been general improvement in the U.S. stock market’s internal indicators. Moreover, this is the beginning of another seasonally bullish period — the so-called Santa Claus rally.

According to the latest Labor Department data, weekly jobless claims fell to 219,000 compared with expectations of 223,000. However continuing claims pointed to a cooling labor market, jumping by 46,000 in the week ending Dec. 14 to 1.91 million, the highest level since November 2021.

Stocks have seen a stellar 2024, but the S&P 500 is in danger of a rare December loss. It’s all riding on the so-called Santa Claus rally.

Learn all about the Santa Claus Rally, a seasonal stock market trend with historical significance. Discover why it happens and some tips.

The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) has advanced 34% year to date, and history says that momentum may carry into 2025. Since its inception in 1971, the Nasdaq has returned at least 20% in 20 years, and at least 30% in 12 years. After a 20%-plus gain in a calendar year: The Nasdaq has returned an average of 17% during the next year.

The so-called Santa Claus rally could get off to a late start this year. But better late than never. A team of strategists at Ned Davis Research pointed out that stocks have struggled ahead of the start of the “Santa Claus rally” period, which begins on Tuesday.

The Dow closed slightly higher on Thursday while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 closed lower in the second day of a so-called Santa Claus rally period.

Asian Shares Are Mostly Higher in Thin Post-Christmas Holiday Trading BANGKOK (AP) — Asian shares were mostly higher Thursday in thin post-Christmas holiday trading, while oil prices rose. Japan's Nikkei 225 index surged 0.

Stock indexes drifted to a mixed finish on Wall Street Thursday, as some heavyweight technology and communications sector stocks offset gains elsewhere in the market. The S&P 500 fell less than 0.1% after spending the day wavering between small gains and losses.