Wall Street had a banner year in 2024. The stock market volatility we've seen so far in 2025 isn't going to change its fortunes very much. Why it matters: As is often said, the stock market is not the economy.

U.S. stock indexes are drifting Friday following potentially discouraging updates on inflation and how much U.S. households may be willing to spend. The S&P 500 was down 0.2% in early trading but still hanging onto a small gain for the week.

U.S. stocks are falling following discouraging updates on inflation and how much U.S. households may be willing to spend.