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Bloomberg Talks

Goldman's David Kostin Talks Market Outlook, Investment Strategy

Dec 12, 2024
David Kostin, Chief US equity strategist at Goldman Sachs, shares his expert insights on M&A activity and the S&P 500. He discusses the anticipated easing cycle by the Federal Reserve and its implications for stock prices. Kostin emphasizes investing in small and mid-sized businesses, targeting acquisition-ready companies for high risk-adjusted returns. He also explores the strategic focus on stocks with merger potential ahead of regulatory changes in 2025, highlighting the importance of diversification in a volatile market.
07:26

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Quick takeaways

  • David Kostin anticipates a significant increase in merger and acquisition activity, projecting a 25% rise in the next year.
  • Strategic stock selection focusing on small and mid-sized businesses is crucial for navigating market volatility and enhancing portfolio performance.

Deep dives

Importance of Federal Reserve Actions

The current expectations around the Federal Reserve's cutting cycle are pivotal for market participants. Analysts project that the Fed will initiate cuts shortly, which is largely factored into current market conditions. This dovetailing of monetary policy and market performance reflects a belief that economic growth is more robust than it is statistically indicated, as evidenced by the rise of cyclical stocks versus defensive counterparts. Recent uplifts in small business optimism and CEO confidence further bolster a positive outlook, with forecasts predicting a 25% increase in merger and acquisition activity in the upcoming year.

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