Outlook 2025: Pragmatic Optimism

Looking back, 2024 clearly echoed many of the themes from 2023. By and large, the economy continued to defy expectations and surprised once again. Stocks continued their strong performance, driven by powerful trends in artificial intelligence and technology. On the other hand, the bond market experienced another lackluster year amid policy ambiguity and uneasiness over rising debt levels.

As we look to 2025, we remain cautiously optimistic. We’re cautious because no market environment is ever permanent, yet optimistic since constructive long-term technology trends are in place. Plus, potential tax policy and deregulation efforts in 2025 could provide some tailwinds — particularly from an economic perspective. While growth asset returns are not expected to be as robust in 2025, the investment environment should prove to be favorable for investors.

For 2025, new policies will need to be digested, and relatively rich valuations may get tested. For the time being, this backdrop favors a constructive, but also a conservative and balanced approach, when it comes to tactical stock and bond allocations.

To learn more about the opportunities and challenges to be on the lookout for, read the 2025 Outlook today.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. The economic forecasts may not develop as predicted. Please read the full Outlook 2025: Pragmatic Optimism for additional description and disclosure. This research material has been prepared by LPL Financial LLC.

Tracking #658532 / LPLE #658543 (Exp. 12/25)