We get it — the stock market moves fast, and it can be hard to keep up. That’s why we created Breakfast News, your daily dose of expert market analysis and Foolish fun, delivered straight to your inbox every morning.

Consider this a sneak peek at the kind of insights and updates you can expect, and what thousands of investors rely on every morning to stay ahead of the market.

And the best part? It’s completely free to receive every market day.

The only catch? Today’s email is just a preview; you have to opt in by clicking the button below to get these insights delivered daily — so you’re always prepared before the market opens.

DECEMBER 23, 2024

As we kick off our 2024 in Review series, a hearty thank you for inviting Breakfast News into your morning routine! Our team of Foolish investors wishes you and yours a very happy holiday season, and we'll be taking the next two days off. Breakfast News will be back in your inbox on Thursday, December 26, as we count down to the end of the year, with special editions through December 31.

Despite stubborn prices and higher interest rates, the economy proved resilient in 2024 — though consumer behavior shifted dramatically.

Inflation pushed consumers to be “thoughtful” in prioritizing spending, in the words of BJ’s Wholesale (NYSE: BJ) CEO Robert Eddy. This shift created unexpected winners and losers during earnings season, with seemingly similar retailers experiencing starkly different outcomes.

Even established brands discovered that heritage alone couldn’t guarantee success. As thoughtful consumers prioritized value and need over brand loyalty, some of the biggest names experienced significant volatility throughout the year.

Defying predictions of consumer caution, economic data in 2024 consistently exceeded expectations.The U.S. economy expanded by 3.1% in the most recent quarter, fueled by consumer spending which surged 3.7% — its strongest increase since early 2023. The services sector — particularly restaurants and hotels — emerged as a standout performer, indicating Americans maintained their appetite for dining out and travel despite economic pressures.

The gift that keeps on giving: Have you shared the love of investing with a family member? What’s your advice to others? Become a member to hear what your fellow Fools are saying!

You can start your day ahead of the game with the market’s top stories and key investing insights by subscribing to the Fool’s Breakfast News email. Just click below — it’s free!