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Long live the bull market

Last weekend marked the second anniversary of the current bull market in equities. Since hitting its low point on October 12, 2022, the MSCI All Countries World Index has surged about 50 percent, the S&P 500 has risen by around 75 percent, and the Nasdaq has doubled. The driving force behind this impressive rally? The so-called “Magnificent Seven” stocks, which have nearly tripled in value over the same period.

More market, less government

There have been many criticisms of capitalism in recent years. These were mainly attempts to get rid of neoliberalism that relied on the solving power of the free market.

In practice, many neoliberals have distanced themselves from the idea of a “natural” free market. For these neoliberals, the market exists thanks to a government that regulates property rights, makes provisions for international trade and also fuels the competitive spirit. Everything and everyone has to compete with each other, even in terms of utilities and the welfare state.