As the trading week winds down, investors are keeping a close eye on key developments that could shape the stock market’s performance, CNBC reports.
From market trends to corporate moves, here are five important things to know before Friday’s opening bell.
1. Market Wrap-Up: A Lukewarm Week for Stocks
The stock market is set to close out a week marked by mixed performance. As of Thursday, the Nasdaq Composite was up a modest 0.22%, while the S&P 500 had declined by 0.64%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.63%. A down day on Thursday pushed the Nasdaq below its 20,000 mark and extended the Dow’s losing streak to six consecutive sessions. Investors will be watching closely to see if Friday’s trading can reverse the week’s lukewarm trend.
2. Trump’s NYSE Appearance Draws Attention
President-elect Donald Trump made headlines Thursday by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Joined by Vice President-elect JD Vance, incoming first lady Melania Trump, and several of his children, Trump addressed the crowd and spoke with CNBC about his views on tariffs, his recent meetings with CEOs, and his expectations for the stock market. His appearance coincided with his selection as TIME’s “Person of the Year” for the second time. Investors are likely to monitor his comments for clues on potential economic and trade policies.
3. Costco’s E-Commerce Surge Drives Strong Results
Wholesale retailer Costco reported a significant boost in online sales, with e-commerce revenue for its most recent quarter up 13% from the same period last year. The company also exceeded Wall Street estimates for both revenue and net income in its fiscal first quarter of 2025. Costco attributed the strong performance to increased membership fees and a surge in online shopping. The results highlight the company’s growing e-commerce footprint as it adapts to shifting consumer habits.
4. FAA Leader to Step Down Amid Leadership Change
Michael Whitaker, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), announced that he will step down from his role on January 20. Whitaker was appointed by President Joe Biden in October 2023 for a five-year term but will leave as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. The transition comes as the FAA continues to oversee critical safety matters related to Boeing aircraft. In a statement, Whitaker praised the FAA’s continuity of leadership, saying, “This transition will be no different.”
5. Malls Make a Comeback, Thanks to Gen Z Shoppers
While online shopping continues to thrive, Gen Z shoppers are defying expectations by flocking to brick-and-mortar malls. Recent data shows that Gen Z visits physical stores at rates similar to their grandparents, a trend that has mall operators taking notice. To cater to this demographic, many shopping malls are creating more experience-driven store features and social spaces. This shift presents a renewed opportunity for mall-based retailers and could support the broader recovery of physical retail spaces.
