US Stocks Having Worst December Since Depression

US stock markets are set for their worst December since 1931, when the country was in the throes of the Great Depression. The S&P 500 has lost nearly 8% of its value in December, eclipsing the 6% fall witnessed during the final month of 2002. Traditionally, stocks rally into the year end in what is known as a "Santa Rally" — a phenomenon where stocks rise in December as investors are filled with festive cheer and optimism. Follow the latest market moves at Markets Insider.