US stocks experienced a mixed trading day as the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell slightly, while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 saw modest gains. Investors reacted to new job openings data and a wave of earnings reports, setting the stage for a crucial week ahead.
On Tuesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) fell around 0.2% by afternoon trading, reflecting investor caution. In contrast, the S&P 500 (^GSPC) managed a slight increase of roughly 0.1%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) rebounded from earlier losses to rise about 0.4%.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that job openings fell to 7.44 million at the end of September, down from 7.86 million in August. This decline has raised concerns about the labor market's cooling, especially as the Federal Reserve prepares for its next interest rate decision on November 7.
Earnings reports are at the forefront of market activity this week. Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL) is set to release its results after the market closes, and investors are keen to see if the tech giant's significant investments in AI are yielding returns. Alphabet is the first of five major tech companies, dubbed the "Magnificent Seven," to report earnings in the coming days.
Other notable earnings include:
Tech stocks led the day's sector performance, while utilities and energy lagged. The Energy sector (XLE) was notably affected by falling oil prices, with WTI crude trading above $67 a barrel and Brent crude just below $71.
Bitcoin prices rose around 5% on Tuesday, hovering just below $72,000 per token, marking the highest level since early June. This surge coincided with significant inflows into US spot bitcoin ETFs, totaling $472.6 million on Monday.
The upcoming US presidential election is adding a layer of uncertainty to the markets. Shares of Trump Media & Technology Group (DJT) saw a brief trading halt after rising significantly, reflecting investor optimism regarding Donald Trump's chances in the election.
As the week progresses, all eyes will be on the earnings reports from major tech companies and the upcoming economic data releases. Investors are keen to gauge the health of the labor market and its implications for Federal Reserve policy, making this a pivotal week for the stock market.
The TSX composite index rises to a seven-week high as the Federal Reserve's positive economic outlook boosts investor confidence, while the Bank of Canada cuts interest rates to support the economy.
European shares rebounded as the tech selloff eased, with retail stocks leading the gains. The STOXX 600 index closed at a record high, reflecting renewed investor confidence.
Italy's government supports Banca Monte dei Paschi's bid for Mediobanca, aiming to strengthen the banking sector and enhance the economy.
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