Expect pauses and 10-15% breakdowns throughout the current bull market, says SoFi's Liz Thomas

Market Overview - The market is nearing all-time highs as the third quarter ends, with expectations of continued upward movement despite potential seasonal weaknesses in September and October [1][2] - There is a belief that the current bull market still has room to grow, with anticipated pauses and corrections in the 10% to 15% range [3][4] Federal Reserve Impact - The Federal Reserve's actions are crucial; if the economy begins to reheat and inflation pressures rise, concerns about rate hikes may emerge [9][10] - The current cooling phase of the economy allows for a stable market environment, provided the Fed maintains a patient approach [11] Sector Insights - Financials and healthcare sectors are highlighted as attractive investment opportunities, with financials benefiting from a lighter regulatory environment [12][14] - Healthcare valuations are considered low, making it an appealing sector for investment, despite potential political risks related to drug pricing [13][15] China Market Dynamics - China's economy shows signs of improvement, but there are concerns about the reliability of data and the government's influence on economic indicators [17] - Increased competition in the AI sector from China may present both risks and opportunities for the U.S. market, with potential upside in the competitive landscape [18] Gold Market Analysis - Gold has outperformed stocks and is expected to maintain strong demand due to global currency volatility and central bank actions [19][20] - While significant price increases in gold are not anticipated, it is viewed as a stable investment for diversification, with less volatility compared to the stock market [21][22]