Hi friend 👋🏼

As we wrap up 2024, this final weekly recap covers a mix of notable and remarkable stories. While markets faced a festive challenge to keep the Santa Rally alive, the European Central Bank embraced a forward-looking approach to inflation and growth. 

In the trading world, the year saw bold moves, from crypto highs to unanticipated market swings. And to top it off, an iconic 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta reminds us of the lasting appeal of timeless design and craftsmanship.

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The Weekly Fun Fact 🤔

A piece of Ferrari history is about to take the stage. The 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta “Tour de France”, a model that’s synonymous with timeless elegance and outstanding racing pedigree, it’s getting ready for auction. 

With only 36 units ever built and its handcrafted Scaglietti coachwork, this car isn’t just rare — it’s legendary. Expected to fetch $4.5 million at auction, this particular model has an impressive track record, having competed in some of the most prestigious races. For both car enthusiasts and collectors, this auction is a look into the golden era of automotive craftsmanship.

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🔴 Markets struggle to save the Santa rally 🎅

The holiday season isn’t delivering cheer to the markets just yet. Traders are in a tug-of-war against the Grinch as they try to rescue the anticipated Santa Rally. This year-end phenomenon, typically driven by holiday optimism and last-minute portfolio adjustments, is under pressure from economic uncertainties and losing trust among investors. 

With some S&P 500 stocks hinting at potential upward momentum, hopes aren’t completely crushed. Still, challenges persist, making the road to a festive market rally far from certain. Will investors find joy or coal in their stockings? The upcoming days will reveal all.

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🟡 ECB’s next 2025 chapter 📉

The European Central Bank is entering 2025 with a major shift in focus. As inflation approaches 2%, projections will now guide policy over backward-looking data. President Christine Lagarde emphasized optimism for the future, following a year of rate cuts and easing measures. 

While inflation seems stable, economic growth is slow, sparking debates about neutral rates and borrowing costs. Amid political uncertainties and global risks, the ECB is expected to act cautiously, likely cutting rates gradually in the coming months to balance both growth and stability.

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🟢 The year’s wildest trades 💹

As 2024 draws to a close, investors reflect on a rollercoaster year in the markets. The advance of AI and Donald Trump’s election fueled bold bets, with US Treasury bills, tech stocks, and crypto leading the winners. Exchange-Traded Funds became a favorite for day traders as red-hot US stocks and digital assets triggered a boost in risk-taking.

But not all strategies thrived. In August, complex hedge fund tactics collapsed and leveraged trades crashed. With the exception of a rare win in Argentina, emerging markets once again outperformed the US. In Madrid, a niche bond shocked with a 2,900% rally, a proof of the unpredictability in the market’s hallmark this year.

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Interesting reads

‍Charles de Gaulle’s electric LIP watch sells for $500k‍
Charles de Gaulle's descendants auctioned personal objects inherited at the death of his son, Philippe, in March.

Wall Street’s dubious predictions for 2025
‍Major Wall Street firms have released their S&P 500 predictions for 2025, following previous years' forecasts.

Is it worth buying a property to rent?
Benefits include passive rental income, property value appreciation, and tax advantages like interest deductions.

What is a Crypto whitelist?
It’s an important security measure and an effective tool to gain exclusive access to the cryptocurrency market.

The 10 best art galleries in the world
‍The best art galleries in the world are well-known not only for their collections, but for the cultural relevance they represent.

The 50 greatest watches of all time
‍Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe. The best luxury wristwatches were compiled by industry experts and elite collectors.

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🎬 It’s a wrap! From the ECB’s forward-looking strategy to the market’s wild trades and a Ferrari masterpiece, 2024 ends with uncertainty and inspiration.