Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq diverge after Nvidia earnings, economic data
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Tech stocks, however, took a hit as Nvidia (NVDA) fell nearly 4% midday. Wall Street analysts pointed to the AI chip giant’s outlook for first quarter gross margin as a sticking point following fourth quarter earnings which topped expectations.
Shares of Nvidia have been under pressure since January as investors and analysts have raised concerns about Big Tech’s continued AI spending.
Other semiconductor-related stocks also fell on Thursday, including chip equipment maker ASML (ASML) and Nvidia competitor Advanced Micro Devices (AMD).
Concerns over a potential trade war with China and other countries may also be weighing on the sector. President Trump’s announcement of additional tariffs on Chinese goods and plans to move forward with levies against Mexico and Canada next week have added to the uncertainty in the market.
The S&P 500 (^GSPC) experienced a slight rise while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) slid as tech stocks faltered. This mixed performance in the stock market was largely influenced by various factors such as the latest tariff headlines and corporate earnings reports.
One of the key events that impacted the market was President Trump’s affirmation of imposing tariffs on Mexico and Canada on March 4. This announcement caused the US dollar to jump, while Canada’s loonie and Mexico’s peso fell. The euro and yuan also sold off as traders reacted to the news of fresh tariffs on the EU and an additional 10% tariff on China.
In terms of individual stock performances, chip heavyweight Nvidia (NVDA) led the tech sector higher following its fourth-quarter results. The company’s strong earnings beat contributed to the rise in the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC), which moved up roughly 0.7%. Similarly, the Dow (^DJI) rose as investors digested the latest US economic data, including GDP.
On the other hand, oil prices bounced above their yearly low after President Trump canceled Chevron’s license to operate in Venezuela. This decision had an impact on West Texas Intermediate crude (CL=F), which rose more than 1.5% to hover around $70 per barrel, and Brent futures (BZ=F), which traded above $73 per barrel.
Overall, the market’s performance was a mix of gains and losses as investors navigated through the latest developments in trade policies and corporate earnings. The S&P 500 (^GSPC) hovered near the flat line, reflecting the cautious sentiment among traders as they assessed the implications of these external factors on the market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) started the day on a positive note as it rose above the flat line. This upward momentum was driven by several factors, including positive earnings from Nvidia and economic data that showed the US economy growing at a steady pace.
Shares of Nvidia saw a significant increase in early trading after the company reported data center revenue that exceeded expectations. The company’s data center revenue came in at $35.6 billion, surpassing the anticipated $34 billion for the quarter. This strong performance from Nvidia contributed to the overall positive sentiment in the market.
In addition to Nvidia’s positive earnings, economic data released before the bell also provided a boost to investor confidence. The Bureau of Economic Analysis’s second estimate of fourth-quarter GDP showed that the US economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.3%. This growth rate was in line with expectations and indicated a steady expansion in the economy.
However, investors are also keeping a close eye on President Donald Trump’s tariff plan, which could potentially impact global trade. The president announced that tariffs against Mexico and Canada would proceed as scheduled on March 4, and he threatened new tariffs on the European Union. These trade tensions have the potential to disrupt market stability and are being closely monitored by investors.
Separately, jobless claims in the US rose to a three-month high, with 242,000 claims filed in the week ending Feb. 22. This increase in jobless claims highlights the ongoing challenges faced by workers in finding new employment opportunities. Despite the rise in jobless claims, federal claims did not show a significant impact from recent layoffs, indicating that the full extent of the economic impact is still uncertain.
Overall, the positive earnings from Nvidia, steady economic growth, and ongoing trade tensions are shaping investor sentiment in the market. As Wall Street continues to assess the various factors influencing market dynamics, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the overall trajectory of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the broader market. The stock of healthcare giant Moderna (MRNA) took a hit in premarket trading on Thursday amid reports that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is considering pulling its contract to produce bird flu shots. This potential withdrawal comes as HHS head Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been vocal against COVID shots and the Trump administration is looking to cut costs.
According to Bloomberg, the review of Moderna’s contract is part of the administration’s efforts to streamline operations and reduce spending. Investors are closely monitoring the situation as any decision to cancel the contract could impact Moderna’s revenue and future prospects in the healthcare sector.
In another development, oil prices saw a slight uptick following President Trump’s decision to reverse Chevron’s license to operate in Venezuela. This move could potentially restrict crude supply, leading to a slight increase in Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate crude oil futures.
Meanwhile, Asian markets experienced a decline as investors reacted to President Trump’s latest tariff announcements. The news, coupled with disappointing earnings from Nvidia (NVDA), contributed to the downward trend in equities across the region.
In the after-hours trading session on Wednesday, several stocks made significant moves. Snowflake (SNOW) saw a 9% jump in its share price after beating revenue expectations for the fiscal year. Salesforce (CRM) shares, on the other hand, dropped 5% following a weaker-than-expected earnings per share forecast for 2025. eBay (EBAY) also plummeted over 8% after providing a disappointing outlook for the coming quarter.
On the commodities front, gold remained near its record high as investors sought safe-haven assets amidst uncertainty surrounding new tariffs. President Trump’s recent comments about imposing additional tariffs have heightened market volatility, driving investors towards assets like gold.
Overall, the financial markets continue to be influenced by geopolitical developments and corporate earnings reports. Investors are advised to stay cautious and monitor the news closely for any potential market-moving events. As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of mental health has never been more apparent. The stress and uncertainty brought on by the virus have taken a toll on individuals worldwide, leading to an increase in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In response to this growing crisis, mental health experts are emphasizing the importance of seeking help and taking care of one’s emotional well-being during these challenging times.
One of the key factors contributing to the rise in mental health issues during the pandemic is the increased feelings of isolation and loneliness. With social distancing measures in place and many people working remotely or staying at home, the lack of social interaction has left many feeling disconnected and alone. This sense of isolation can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or lead to the development of new ones, making it crucial for individuals to find ways to stay connected with others, even if it’s through virtual means.
In addition to feelings of isolation, the uncertainty surrounding the virus and its impact on daily life has also contributed to heightened levels of anxiety and stress. From concerns about one’s health and the health of loved ones to worries about job security and financial stability, the pandemic has created a perfect storm of stressors that can take a toll on mental well-being. To combat these feelings of anxiety, experts recommend practicing self-care techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise, as well as seeking professional help if needed.
Another important aspect of mental health during the pandemic is the impact of the virus on vulnerable populations, such as frontline workers, healthcare professionals, and those with preexisting mental health conditions. These individuals are facing unique challenges and stressors that require specialized support and resources to help them cope with the demands of their work and personal lives. Mental health organizations and healthcare providers are working to provide targeted services and interventions to support these groups and ensure they have the resources they need to stay mentally healthy during this challenging time.
As we navigate the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for individuals to prioritize their mental health and seek help if needed. By staying connected with others, practicing self-care techniques, and accessing professional support when necessary, we can better cope with the stress and uncertainty brought on by the virus and emerge from this crisis stronger and more resilient than ever. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s come together as a global community to support each other through these difficult times and prioritize mental health as we work towards a brighter future. the perspective of a travel blogger exploring the vibrant culture of Tokyo, Japan.
Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends traditional culture with modern innovation. As a travel blogger, I was eager to explore this dynamic city and immerse myself in all that it has to offer.
One of the first things that struck me about Tokyo was the incredible contrast between the old and the new. On one hand, you have ancient temples and shrines that have stood for centuries, such as the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. On the other hand, you have the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Shinjuku and Shibuya, where neon lights and bustling crowds create a mesmerizing spectacle.
I spent hours wandering through the narrow streets of Tokyo, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city. I sampled street food from vendors selling everything from savory okonomiyaki to sweet taiyaki. I marveled at the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Japanese crafts, such as pottery and textiles, at the numerous shops and markets scattered throughout the city.
But perhaps the most memorable part of my trip to Tokyo was experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage. I had the opportunity to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, where I learned about the significance of each step in the process and savored the delicate flavors of matcha tea. I also attended a kabuki performance, a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines music, dance, and drama to tell captivating stories.
In addition to exploring Tokyo’s cultural heritage, I also made sure to indulge in some of the city’s more modern offerings. I visited the cutting-edge teamLab Borderless digital art museum, where I was transported to a world of interactive light displays and immersive installations that left me in awe. I also spent an evening in a izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub, sampling an array of delicious small plates and sipping on sake.
Overall, my time in Tokyo was a whirlwind of new experiences and unforgettable moments. From the ancient temples to the bustling streets, this city captivated me with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. If you’re looking for a destination that will both inspire and enchant you, Tokyo is the place to be. The Importance of Self-care in Today’s Hectic World
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, it can be easy to neglect our own well-being in favor of meeting deadlines and fulfilling responsibilities. However, self-care is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health. Taking the time to care for ourselves can help prevent burnout, reduce stress, and improve overall quality of life.
Self-care encompasses a wide range of activities, from getting enough sleep and eating well to exercising regularly and practicing mindfulness. It is about making choices that prioritize our own needs and well-being, even when we are busy or overwhelmed. While it may seem selfish to focus on ourselves, self-care is actually essential for being able to show up fully in our work and relationships.
One of the most important aspects of self-care is managing stress. Chronic stress can have serious negative effects on both our physical and mental health, leading to issues such as high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. By taking the time to relax and unwind, whether through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a walk in nature, we can help reduce our stress levels and improve our overall well-being.
Self-care also involves setting boundaries and learning to say no when necessary. It is important to recognize our own limits and not overextend ourselves, as this can lead to burnout and exhaustion. By prioritizing our own needs and learning to put ourselves first, we can better manage our time and energy.
In addition to managing stress and setting boundaries, self-care also includes taking care of our physical health. This means getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep. These basic self-care practices are essential for maintaining our overall health and well-being.
Self-care is not just about taking care of our physical health, however. It also involves taking care of our mental and emotional well-being. This can include practices such as journaling, therapy, or spending time with loved ones. By taking the time to connect with ourselves and others, we can improve our mental health and build stronger relationships.
In conclusion, self-care is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health in today’s hectic world. By prioritizing our own well-being and taking the time to care for ourselves, we can prevent burnout, reduce stress, and improve our overall quality of life. It is important to remember that self-care is not selfish, but rather a necessary practice for being able to show up fully in our work and relationships. So, take the time to prioritize your own well-being and make self-care a priority in your daily routine. Your mind and body will thank you for it.
