GDP Up, Confidence Down

GDP accelerated to 4.3% in Q3, driven by consumer spending and exports, but inflation rose (PCE 2.8%, Core 2.9%). Consumer confidence fell to 89.1 in December, with present situation sentiment weakening despite stable expectations. Durable goods orders declined (-2.2%) in October, though shipments and core capital goods orders rose. Markets dipped for a third day as the Santa Claus rally stalled; S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 fell, while energy led gains. Fed minutes suggest future rate cuts in 2026. VIX remains low at 14.20, signaling calm amid volatility. Technical EMAs (QQQ: EMA5/9/20 flat; SPY: similar) indicate consolidation near short-term averages, awaiting catalyst direction.