U.S. stocks experienced a slight dip on Monday as investors await key inflation reports and the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision.
The S&P 500 declined by 0.2% in early trading, remaining close to last week’s record high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 74 points, or 0.2%, by 9:37 a.m. Eastern time, while the Nasdaq composite also fell by 0.2%.
Huntington Bancshares saw a notable decrease of 4.5% after revising its profit forecast for the current year downward. In contrast, Diamond Offshore Drilling surged 8.5% following Noble’s agreement to acquire the company in a deal valued at roughly $1.6 billion. Noble’s stock rose 1.5%, indicating traders’ positive sentiment towards the merger.
Apple experienced a 0.3% decline ahead of a conference where it is anticipated to unveil advancements in artificial intelligence. The enthusiasm surrounding AI has driven stocks to new highs, despite concerns regarding elevated interest rates and a slowing U.S. economy.
Recent economic data has presented a mixed picture, and traders are hopeful for a moderate slowdown that alleviates inflationary pressures. Such a scenario could potentially prompt the Federal Reserve to lower its primary interest rate, currently at its highest level in over two decades. An optimal rate cut could potentially revitalize the slowing economy and avert a recession.
remains optimistic despite these uncertainties. Companies benefiting from the AI surge continue to demonstrate significant growth, with Nvidia maintaining a market value close to $3 trillion, even after a 0.1% dip on Monday morning.
Treasury yields displayed mixed movements as the market anticipates reports on inflation at both the consumer and wholesale levels later this week. A crucial report on future inflation expectations, closely monitored by the Federal Reserve, is also scheduled.
On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve will unveil its latest interest rate decision. While no change is expected, policymakers will release revised forecasts for future interest rates and economic conditions. In March, Fed officials projected approximately three rate cuts in 2024, but this forecast is likely to be adjusted. Wall Street traders are currently anticipating one or two rate cuts in 2024, according to CME Group data.
In the bond market, the 10-year Treasury yield increased to 4.45% from 4.43% on Friday, while the two-year yield, which is more sensitive to Fed expectations, slightly decreased to 4.88% from 4.89%.
In international markets, France’s CAC 40 index experienced a decline of 1.9% after President Emmanuel Macron dissolved the National Assembly following unexpected European Parliament election results, where far-right parties made substantial gains, leading to a drop in the euro’s value. Other European markets also witnessed declines, but not as pronounced as France’s.
Asian markets concluded the day with mixed results. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 index rose 0.9% after data indicated Japan’s economy contracted less than initially estimated in the first quarter. South Korea’s Kospi fell 0.8%, while markets in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Australia were closed for holidays.