US Stocks Post Strong November Gains

U.S. stock markets concluded November with their strongest monthly performances of the year, driven by gains in major indexes such as the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 7.5% for the month, with significant contributions from companies like Walt Disney and Goldman Sachs, while the S&P 500 increased by 5.7%, supported by technology stocks including Tesla. Investors monitored consumer spending closely as Black Friday kicked off the holiday shopping season, with early indications of robust online sales. Despite a shortened trading session on Black Friday, stocks like Macy's, Best Buy, and Apple saw increases, reflecting positive market sentiment. The financial sector, buoyed by expectations of favorable regulatory changes under the Trump administration, also performed well. Meanwhile, the Cboe Volatility Index recorded its worst month since 2020, indicating reduced market anxiety.