THE WEEK ON WALL STREET
Stocks posted solid gains in an action-packed week of market-moving economic data, geopolitical news, and bullish new year sentiment.
The S&P 500 Index gained 1.57 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.88 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.32 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, advanced 1.41 percent.
FACT OF THE WEEK
On January 12, 1967, James Bedford becomes the first American to have his remains cryogenically frozen, in hopes of a later reanimation. As cryo companies shuttered, his family at one point had to keep his liquid nitrogen chamber in self-storage.
MARKET MINUTE
Jobs Report
The Labor Department’s latest employment report showed a net gain of 50,000 jobs last month while unemployment ticked down to 4.4 percent, missing economists’ expectations of 73,000 jobs.
Over the full year, net job growth averaged 49,000 per month—the lowest monthly pace in 22 years and a drop from 168,000 per month in 2024. Federal job cuts were a primary reason for the sluggish labor market in 2025, with 277,000 government positions eliminated.
FINANCIAL STRATEGY OF THE WEEK
A Penny Saved is Two Pennies Earned
The famous saying from Poor Richard’s Almanack is frequently misquoted. It was published by founder Benjamin Franklin in 1737: “A penny saved is two pence clear.” Finding ways to manage expenses is a cornerstone of a sound financial strategy.
Here are some simple and inexpensive energy-saving tips that may help you save money.
Audit First
To better understand where opportunities may exist for improving energy efficiency, consider an energy audit. Perform one yourself by purchasing a home energy monitor, which tracks your energy use, and a handheld air leak detector to identify windows, doors and other areas of the home that are drafty. Additionally, your local power utility may offer in-home energy audits or related services that can help identify opportunities for remediation.
..Then Act
Consider these do-it-yourself ideas that may offer immediate savings at very little cost.
- Install a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the heat or air conditioning because—let’s face it—you forget to do it.
- Devices that offer “instant on,” or continuous display (e.g., TV, cable box and recharger) use energy non-stop. Consider a power strip to reduce their electrical use by shutting off the power strip at bedtime.
- Plug up the air leaks through weather stripping or caulking; install door sweeps to block drafts. Close the fireplace damper when not in use.
- Be sure to have your heating system serviced to ensure maximum efficiency.
- Install a water heater blanket and turn it down to 120 degrees; not only is a higher temperature wasteful, but a lower temperature is a safety precaution for younger children. Lower it to a minimum temperature when you leave for vacation.
For many, the cost of running their automobile(s) can be higher than their home. Here are ways to save:
- Tune up your car.
- Check your tires for proper inflation.
- Drive sensibly by eliminating excessive idling, aggressive driving, and observing the speed limit.
- Eliminate weight—empty that trunk!