What is driving 'extreme price swings' in equity markets?

US equities began 2019 with a welcome respite, reversing course from their downward spiral in December 2018.

The S&P 500 index reached new historical highs in recent months, supported primarily by the Federal Reserve's more dovish accommodative policy, putting future US interest rate hikes on hold. Volatility: More than a spring squall? In addition, economic indicators have been positive, mitigating fears of a recession.  However, at times, the market focuses on a single variable. A few months ago, that variable had been the Fed's intentions, which caused a market correction - and now, after a period of calm, trade-related affairs have returned to disturb the markets.  Besides trade wa...