Market Storylines: Shutdown Delays, Q4 Kickoff + M&A Buzz

Eric Criscuolo, Market Strategist at the NYSE, recaps a strong start to Q4 as tech and small caps led gains. A government shutdown delayed key data, but private reports showed labor market weakness. M&A activity surged, with major deals across sectors. Healthcare outperformed on Pfizer news, while energy and financials lagged. Criscuolo flags CPI, FOMC minutes, and OPEC’s meeting as next week’s key drivers.