The stock market faced a dip as we moved into 2026, experiencing a down week. However, losses remained moderate, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 maintaining their positions above the 10-week moving averages. The Dow Jones Industrial Average showed resilience as it rebounded from support levels at its 21-day exponential moving average.
Looking ahead, next week’s earnings calendar appears quiet, but a select few companies are worth monitoring closely. Notably, AAR, Commercial Metals, and Acuity have charts that indicate potential opportunities. The economic highlight of the week will be the December payrolls report, while the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas might offer significant insights into technology trends that could affect the market.
### Stocks to Watch: Fresh Picks for the New Year
With major indexes hovering around their recent highs and trading sideways, it’s time to refresh watchlists heading into 2026. A diverse range of stocks appears to be forming bases, including Alphabet (Google’s parent company), Amphenol, Globus Medical, Reddit, and Evercore. Google stock briefly surpassed an early entry last Friday before settling just above the 21-day moving average. Amphenol also flirted with an early entry point. Reddit surged past its early target, coming within 3% of its cup-with-handle buy point, while Evercore approached its cup-with-handle base, staying within 1% of its target. Globus Medical is similarly positioned for an aggressive entry.
### Economic Focus: December Jobs Report
An array of economic indicators is set to be released in the stock market’s first full trading week of January. Key reports will include the manufacturing and services indexes from the Institute of Supply Management, along with housing starts and building permits from the Commerce Department. However, the spotlight will be on the Labor Department’s December payrolls report due on Friday. The Chicago Federal Reserve indicated that the labor market remained stable throughout the month, with minimal change in layoffs, job quits, and hiring rates. The unemployment rate is expected to remain steady at approximately 4.56%.
### Spotlight on CES: Innovations in AI
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will kick off in Las Vegas, showcasing cutting-edge technology with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence. Major players like Nvidia and AMD are set to present their advancements, highlighting AI’s integration into various devices—from smartglasses and wearable technology to autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots. Additionally, notable speeches from leaders of heavy-equipment manufacturer Caterpillar and German tech giant Siemens will contribute to discussions on the future of industrial hardware.
### Earnings Insights: Stocks Worth Considering
The upcoming week features a sparse earnings report schedule, yet some companies should capture investors’ attention. Jefferies Financial Group, AAR, PriceSmart, AZZ, Commercial Metals, and Acuity all display promising charts. Applied Digital could shed light on developments in AI data centers, blockchain, and cryptocurrency markets, while grocery retailer Albertsons and MSC Industrial Direct may offer valuable insights into broader economic conditions as well.
As the year unfolds, staying informed and updated on both economic trends and key stock movements will be essential for navigating the market landscape ahead.
