Headline: Nasdaq Rebounds as Shutdown Risks Recede; Focus Shifts to CPI, Jobs, and FOMC
The Nasdaq snapped back this week, reclaiming last week’s losses as optimism grew over a resolution to the government shutdown. While the rally eased funding stress and lifted sentiment, the path ahead hinges on the return of key U.S. economic data and how it shapes Federal Reserve policy expectations into the December FOMC meeting.
After Chair Jerome Powell signaled caution on the timing of potential rate cuts, markets repriced toward a more hawkish stance, pressuring equities. With the shutdown cloud lifting, investors now await the release of nonfarm payrolls and CPI, which will reset interest rate expectations. Strong prints could push yields higher and weigh on risk assets, while softer data would likely reinforce rate-cut bets and extend the stock market recovery.
From a technical perspective, the Nasdaq remains within striking distance of record highs. Buyers are eyeing a breakout to new all-time highs, but resistance near prior peaks may attract sellers looking to fade strength with tight risk. On lower timeframes, price action has turned more rangebound. Immediate support is seen near 25,474, where dip-buying interest could re-emerge, while a sustained move above 25,832 would signal renewed bullish momentum. A break below support would shift focus back to the broader uptrend line.
Key Points: – Nasdaq recovers as shutdown concerns fade, reversing last week’s losses. – December Fed decision remains data-dependent after Powell’s cautious tone. – Upcoming CPI and nonfarm payrolls will guide rate-cut expectations and market direction. – Strong data could revive hawkish repricing; softer data may fuel further gains. – Key levels: 25,474 support; 25,832 breakout trigger toward fresh all-time highs. – Sellers may defend resistance near prior peaks, with buyers active on dips.
