In the opening days of 2024, some of the world's tech behemoths, including Apple, Amazon.com, Alphabet (Google parent), Microsoft Group, Meta Platforms, Tesla, and Nvidia Corp – collectively known as the 'Magnificent 7' – are grappling with a challenging start as their shares face substantial losses on the stock market. The prolonged dip over the past four sessions constitutes their lengthiest losing streak in a month, according to a recent report by Bloomberg News.
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| Shares of some of the biggest companies in the world are facing their biggest losing streak in a month. |
Understanding the Slide
Shares of these tech giants, representing some of the most influential companies globally, have collectively fallen, wiping out a staggering $383 billion in market value. Apple, in particular, has led this broad-based slump, experiencing a 4.6% decline over the past four sessions. The Nasdaq 100 index has also witnessed a sharp downturn in the last four trading days.
Steve Sosnick, chief strategist at Interactive Brokers Group, attributes this pullback to a natural correction following a robust rally in calendar year 2023. He notes that the absence of year-end factors that fueled the rally suggests that the party may be winding down.
Market Dynamics and Concerns
Despite an exceptional surge of over 100% in the previous year, fueled by heightened enthusiasm for artificial intelligence, the momentum of the 'Magnificent 7' began to wane in the latter part of 2023. Investor deliberations over the Federal Reserve's ability to manage a smooth economic landing for the US, potentially resulting in fewer anticipated interest rate cuts, contributed to this slowdown.
Sosnick emphasizes the importance of a soft landing, stating that high-single-digit or double-digit earnings growth may be compromised in a less favorable scenario. However, he also notes that a soft landing may not warrant the significant cuts seen previously.
Individual Challenges and Bearish Outlooks
Some members within the 'Magnificent 7' are facing specific challenges in the early part of 2024. Apple's shares have experienced downward pressure following a recent bearish outlook. Analysts from Barclays Plc downgraded the tech giant's shares to underweight, citing expectations of weakened demand for iPhones in the future.
Tesla, despite surpassing analysts' expectations for electric vehicle deliveries in the fourth quarter, has seen a continuous decline over the past four days. This marks its longest losing streak in over four weeks, relinquishing its leading position to China's BYD Co.
Outlook for 2024
While the Bloomberg report notes that it is premature to declare the end of the tech-focused rally, it acknowledges that much of the gains in 2023 served to recover losses from the previous year. Key players like Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Tesla are still trading below their all-time highs, suggesting potential for further upward movement.
As we look ahead to 2024, major tech companies face significant challenges. Beyond providing innovative technology, ensuring sustained profitability will be crucial, according to Sosnick. The evolving landscape will require these giants to navigate a delicate balance between innovation and fiscal responsibility.
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