US markets ended 2023 on a high note, with the S&P 500 inching closer to its record high on optimism about the Federal Reserve's handling of inflation and a year-end tax benefit. While economic signals like jobless claims suggest a gradual slowdown, some uncertainty remains. Overall, investors closed the year with a positive outlook, expecting further gains in 2024. However, as Matt Dmytryszyn, Chief Investment Officer, cautioned, "a lot is still to be determined." Despite the uncertainty, his fund is betting on energy and industrial sectors, reflecting the overall positive sentiment heading into 2024.