top of page

Weekly Market Commentary

  • Writer: Bradley Clough
    Bradley Clough
  • 7 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Market Recap Powered by: YCharts

Week of May. 5 through May. 9, 2025


The S&P 500 Index fell 0.5% this week as declines led by health care and communication services outweighed gains paced by industrials.


The S&P 500 ended the week at 5,659.91, up 1.6% in May and down 3.8% this year.


Concerns about the Trump administration's tariff policies have weighed on the stock market. Those worries were underscored on Wednesday as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, speaking after the central bank's policy-setting committee left interest rates steady, said: "If the large increases in tariffs that have been announced are sustained, they're likely to generate a rise in inflation, a slowdown in economic growth and an increase in unemployment."


A bit of optimism emerged Thursday after a trade deal between the US and the UK was announced. On Friday, President Donald Trump indicated in a social media post that an 80% tariff on Chinese imports, which would reflect a cut from 145%, may be under consideration as Chinese and US officials prepare to meet this weekend. Many analysts still consider 80% as a high tariff rate, and no further deals have been announced.


This week among sectors, health care posted the largest drop, falling 4.3%, followed by a 2.4% decline in communication services. Consumer staples, real estate and materials also declined.


Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX) shares fell 15%. The company reported Q1 adjusted earnings and revenue that trailed estimates by analysts. At least two analysts downgraded their ratings on the stock.


In communication services, Match Group (MTCH) shares shed 11%. The company plans to cut its workforce by 13%.


Among the sector rallies in the week, industrials climbed 1.1%, followed by a 0.8% gain in consumer discretionary, a 0.5% rise in utilities and a 0.4% advance in energy. Technology and financials eked out small increases.


Rockwell Automation (ROK) shares jumped 16% this week. The company reported fiscal Q2 results that topped Wall Street projections and raised full-year earnings guidance.


Next week's earnings calendar features Cisco Systems (CSCO), Walmart (WMT), Deere (DE) and Applied Materials (AMAT).


Economic data will include the April consumer and producer price indexes, two closely watched inflation readings. April retail sales, industrial production and housing starts, as well as May consumer sentiment, are expected next week.


Provided by MT Newswires.

Logo of American Financial Management

501 Fairmount Ave Suite 203

Towson, MD 21286

​

Phone: (443) 339-2115​

Fax: (319) 277-0798

Email: Support@AFM-RIA.com

Resources

Broker Check icon for American Financial Management a financial investment and retirement advisor in Towson Maryland USA
  • AMF Financial Advisor Maryland Twitter X profile
  • AMF Financial Advisor Maryland Linkedin profile

WARRANTIES & DISCLAIMERS: There are no warranties implied.

American Financial Management, Ltd is a registered investment adviser located in Owings Mills, MD. American Financial Management, Ltd may only transact business in those states in which it is registered, or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. American Financial Management, Ltd web site is limited to the dissemination of general information pertaining to its advisory services, together with access to additional investment-related information, publications, and links. Accordingly, the publication of American Financial Management, Ltd web site on the Internet should not be construed by any consumer and/or prospective client as American Financial Management, Ltd solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, over the Internet. Any subsequent, direct communication by American Financial Management, Ltd with a prospective client shall be conducted by a representative that is either registered or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from registration in the state where the prospective client resides. For information pertaining to the registration status of American Financial Management, Ltd, please contact the state securities regulators for those states in which American Financial Management, Ltd maintains a registration filing. A copy of American Financial Management, Ltd current written disclosure statement discussing American Financial Management, Ltd business operations, services, and fees is available at the SEC’s investment adviser public information website – www.adviserinfo.sec.gov or from American Financial Management, Ltd upon written request. American Financial Management, Ltd does not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, or relevance of any information prepared by any unaffiliated third party, whether linked to American Financial Management, Ltd web site or incorporated herein, and takes no responsibility therefor. All such information is provided solely for convenience purposes only and all users thereof should be guided accordingly.

This website and information are provided for guidance and information purposes only.  Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed.  Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy.  This website and information are not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice.

Brad Clough is licensed to sell life insurance products.  This means there may be occasions when life insurance recommendations could result in the receipt of commissions or other compensation.  This arrangement creates a potential conflict of interest, as there is a financial incentive to recommend these products.

© American Financial Management LLC.  All rights reserved.

Website Support by Brightside Studios

bottom of page