US stock indices closed with mixed results on Thursday as investors balanced corporate earnings surprises with optimism over global trade negotiations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.7%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite edged up 0.07% and 0.18%, respectively.
Sector Performance Highlights Divergence
Eight of the 11 S&P 500 sectors declined, led by consumer discretionary and materials. Energy and technology stocks offset losses, rising 0.71% and 0.67% as mega-cap firms like Nvidia and Microsoft gained ground. Tesla shares tumbled 8.2% after missing earnings estimates, while Alphabet climbed 0.88% on strong results and expansion plans.
Trade Progress Tempers Inflation Concerns
Recent US trade agreements with Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines have buoyed market sentiment, though analysts caution that unresolved tariff disputes could pressure corporate margins. Investors remain watchful ahead of an August 1 deadline for potential new tariffs.
IBM fell 7.62% despite beating profit expectations, reflecting broader market hesitation. American Airlines led transport-sector declines with a 9.62% drop amid rising fuel cost concerns.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com