Manufacturing Mixed Picture, Market Breadth Shakes SPX & Rare Earths Crumble

Economic Indicators - The S&P Global Manufacturing PMI came in at 52.5%, indicating expansion, slightly better than the expected 52.2% and the previous month's 52.2% [2] - The ISM Manufacturing PMI, however, fell to 48.7%, below the expected 49.4%, indicating contraction in the manufacturing sector [4] - New orders in manufacturing are also in contraction territory at 49.4%, while employment figures improved slightly to 46, still indicating contraction [4][5] US-China Trade Relations - The White House has decided to hold off on additional tariffs as China resumes some semiconductor exports and increases purchases of US agricultural products, including wheat and soybeans [7][8][9] - This easing of trade tensions has led to a positive market reaction, particularly in the agricultural sector [8][10] Market Reactions - Rare earth and mineral companies are experiencing declines, with MP Materials down approximately 5.3%, as investor enthusiasm wanes amid easing supply concerns [12][14][16] - The broader S&P 500 index is facing selling pressure, with only about 19% of stocks in the green, indicating a challenging market environment [15] Oil Market Dynamics - OPEC+ plans to increase production by 137,000 barrels per day, aligning with market expectations, but will pause production increases between January and March due to concerns over inventory levels [19][21] - Current oil prices are under pressure, with significant inventory levels noted, and a bearish outlook persists unless prices can stabilize above $65 [22][23]