The Materials sector ( XLB ) has declined about 1% in 2024, ranking it among the S&P 500's ( ^GSPC ) worst-performing sectors this year.

Yahoo Finance Senior Markets Reporter Ines Ferré analyzes the sector's performance throughout 2024, examining the factors behind its underwhelming results and how global economic slowdowns, particularly in China, have impacted materials companies.

She also spotlights standout stocks for the year, including EcoLab Inc. ( ECL ) and Sherwin-Williams ( SHW ).

To watch more expert insights and analysis on the latest market action, check out more Market Domination here .

This post was written by Angel Smith