Stock Market Report 1/31/12: January 2012 in the Books

As Facebook prepares for its Initial Public Offering this week, one must wonder what Facebook’s IPO will mean for Wall Street. The Stock Market was the usual mixed back on the final day of January 2012, on Tuesday January 31^st 2012.

Stock Market Report 1/31/12: Month Wrapup and Facebook IPO

This month had some ups and some downs. The stock market seemed to be remotely strong at times, and the lows were not as low as it could have been. January 2012 was reported to be the best finish that the Stock Market had since 1997. Of course given the obvious post holiday slumps, that might not be the best indicator. It is just that the stocks did not drop all that much throughout the month.

Investing in the stock market, the game has not changed as is a very calculated risk. But perhaps the risks are greater and the rewards might be less in the long run for many stocks. As Facebook prepares to go live with their IPO on Wednesday, it may be a boon for the Stock Market but it may also be just another crack in the foundation for both the market and Facebook. Many believe Facebook had a peak of about a year or two ago and there are many concerns about the company security wise and how it will address it.

Still it may be a logical step for Facebook to take. And it might allow the market to really rebound in an extent. Still it will be big news for the market. Investors will be watching to see how Facebook plays when their IPO is live this week.

We may live in some interesting economic times with both news good and bad. Until next time, invest wisely.

Dow Jones: 12,637.15(-16.57)

Nasdaq: 2,813.84(+1.90)

S and P 500: 1,312.44(-0.62)