The COVID-19 pandemic has brought sweeping changes to the world, including significant disruptions in financial markets. In response, President Trump declared the pandemic a national emergency, implementing plans to increase testing and restrict travel to Europe. Across the U.S., schools, restaurants, bars, sporting events, and other nonessential businesses have temporarily shut down, leaving Americans navigating isolation and social distancing.

The biggest economic news of the past several weeks stems from the impact of the spreading coronavirus. Stock markets have tumbled, and investors remain uncertain. Despite this, reports from manufacturing, retail, and housing indicate growth in each respective industry.

January threw a variety of obstacles at investors around the world. Tensions seemed to flare between the United States and Iran, negotiations on trade continued between the U.S. and China, the coronavirus spread to several countries, and impeachment proceedings continued in the Senate. Despite all of this, the stock market entered February at an all-time high while several other signs of growth persist.

Despite stock markets finishing near all-time highs at the end of 2019, the beginning of the new year is already presenting new challenges for investors. While the housing industry remains optimistic, manufacturing continues to suffer. Several political issues will continue to affect the markets as we begin the new year.