Stocks have the worst quarter since 2022 as Trump economy slips

Key Points:

• U.S. stocks surged on Tuesday with the S&P 500 up 2.9%, Nasdaq rising 3.8%, and the Dow gaining 1,125 points, but March marked a difficult month with the S&P 500 down 5.09% and Nasdaq down 4.75%.
• The U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz heavily impacted markets, contributing to the worst quarterly start for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq since 2022.
• Oil prices soared dramatically in March, with Brent crude rising over 60% and West Texas Intermediate crude up more than 50%, leading to higher fuel costs and inflation globally, including a 34% increase in U.S. gas prices.
• Market volatility has been heightened under President Trump's second term, with sharp corrections linked to tariff policies and energy price spikes, despite overall gains of 8% in the S&P 500 since his re-election.
• Global markets also faced challenges, with the Nikkei 225 experiencing its worst month since 2008 and the Stoxx 600 its worst since 2022, while inflation pressures continue to mount worldwide.