A strong finish to a strong year  2024 was a remarkable year for investors. After an outstanding 26.29% return in 2023, the S&P 500 posted another strong performance in 2024, gaining 25.02% . While concerns over inflation and interest rate policy loomed at the beginning of the year, a resilient U.S. economy, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and strong corporate earnings helped sustain investor confidence.  [Download the Full Market Recap ]  Key market highlights from Q4 2024  Equities: The S&P 500 gained 2.41% in Q4, ending the year on a high note. While the "Magnificent Seven" tech giants dominated early in the year, the rally broadened in Q4, supporting small- and mid-cap stocks.  Fixed income: Despite three Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2024, bond markets remained volatile. The Bloomberg US Aggregate declined 3.06% in Q4 as investors reassessed the pace of future cuts.  Global markets: European markets struggled due to rising populism a...