Stocks To Watch – 3/3/2025

 Brief Overview

Welcome back to this week’s Stocks to Watch! As February comes to a close, we’re excited to see what March has in store for the markets! As always, We’ll be ready to alert the best setups to members 

Let’s take a look at last week.

President Trump announced a fresh round of 25% tariffs—this time targeting imports from the European Union, with a particular focus on the auto industry. He didn’t hold back, claiming the EU was “formed to screw the United States.” With tariffs already in place on Canada, Mexico, and China, this latest move is turning up the heat on global trade tensions.

The House narrowly passed a budget proposal that includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and $2 trillion in spending reductions over the next decade. The plan slashes Medicaid while ramping up funding for defense and border security. Supporters say it’ll boost economic growth, but critics argue it could widen the deficit and hurt lower-income Americans.

A grassroots movement called for an “economic blackout” on February 28, urging consumers to skip major retailers, gas stations, and fast food joints for 24 hours. Instead, they’re pushing for people to support local businesses and pay with cash to protest rising prices and corporate practices. It’s unclear how much of an impact it’ll have, but it’s got people talking.

Inflation numbers came in at a 2.5% year-over-year increase—not as bad as some feared. The markets liked the news, with major indexes posting gains. But with tariffs ramping up and more economic reports on the horizon, investors are still treading carefully.

Markets bounced back to close the month strong, with the S&P 500 up 1.6%, the Dow gaining 1.4%, and the Nasdaq rising 1.6%. Lower inflation and consumer spending helped ease Treasury yields, though trade concerns kept Asian markets struggling. Despite Friday’s rally, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq still posted weekly losses, while the Dow ended slightly higher. Nvidia and Tesla led the rebound, each jumping 3.9%. A solid finish to February, but inflation, trade tensions, and spending slowdowns keep markets on edge heading into March.

Trade tensions, budget battles, and consumer protests made for a wild week. Inflation came in relatively tame, giving markets a boost, but with more tariffs in play and policy debates heating up, volatility isn’t going anywhere. Stay tuned—March is shaping up to be just as unpredictable!