Stock Market Rallies After Fed Affirms Rate-Cut Outlook; Micron Technology Soars on Strong Earnings
ICARO Media Group
In a positive market reaction to the Federal Reserve's steady rate-cut outlook, Dow Jones futures, S&P 500 futures, and Nasdaq futures rose slightly after hours. The rally was fueled by the Fed's indication of three rate cuts in 2024 and Chief Jerome Powell's affirmation that easing measures should begin "at some point this year." As a result, the S&P 500 and Dow Jones reached record highs, while the Nasdaq and small-cap stocks led the charge.
One notable player in the market surge was Micron Technology (MU), whose stock soared overnight following the company's impressive earnings report. Micron reported an unexpected profit for its fiscal second quarter, with revenue surpassing expectations. The memory-chip giant also provided a bullish guidance for the third quarter. As a result, MU stock jumped over 15%, signaling a potential record high. During Wednesday's session, Micron stock rose 2.4% to 96.25.
Meanwhile, market attention shifted towards notable buy signals from companies such as Arista Networks (ANET), DraftKings (DKNG), PVH Corp. (PVH), JFrog (FROG), and Royal Caribbean (RCL). Additionally, Dow giant Microsoft (MSFT) reaffirmed its recent entry ahead of an AI event scheduled for Thursday.
However, not all news was positive for the tech industry. The Justice Department is reportedly preparing to sue Apple (AAPL) soon, alleging antitrust violations related to the iPhone. Meanwhile, uncertainty looms as the Fed's rate-cut plans could be subject to change depending on inflation and economic reports leading up to the June 11-12 meeting.
The stock market rally gained momentum as the Federal Reserve stayed consistent with its rate-cut plans, and Powell's statements did not undermine investors' confidence. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1%, setting a new all-time high, while the S&P 500 index gained 0.9%. The Nasdaq composite also climbed 1.25% to a record close. The small-cap Russell 2000 jumped 1.9%, approaching its 23-month highs.
Although caution is advised due to excessive bullish sentiment and extended market levels – with the S&P 500 trading 4.6% above its 50-day moving average – opportunities for investors remain. Noteworthy stocks showing positive indicators include Arista Networks, DraftKings, PVH Corp, JFrog, and Royal Caribbean.
In commodities news, U.S. crude oil prices experienced a 2.1% decline, settling at $81.68 per barrel. Meanwhile, the 10-year Treasury yield fell by 2.5 basis points to 4.27%.
In the exchange-traded fund (ETF) sector, the iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (IGV) and VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF (SMH) rose, benefiting from the market rally. The Micron stock is a significant holding in SMH. Moreover, ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) and ARK Genomics ETF (ARKG) saw notable gains, while SPDR S&P Metals & Mining ETF (XME), SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF (XHB), and Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI) also experienced positive movement.
Among the individual stocks, Arista Networks, DraftKings, PVH Corp, JFrog, and Royal Caribbean showed encouraging signs as they rebounded and set up for potential opportunities. Meanwhile, Microsoft stock closed at a record high, inching up 0.9%. The company's highly anticipated AI event to discuss innovations and updates is set to take place on Thursday.
As the stock market rally gains momentum, investors are advised to remain cautious, especially as the S&P 500 approaches extended levels and bullish sentiment remains high. Incremental exposure might be the wise approach in light of recent gains. Nevertheless, opportunities should be sought after, with a focus on stocks that exhibit actionable signals or are setting up for potential growth.
Please follow Ed Carson on @edcarson1971 and @IBD_ECarson for updated stock market insights and more detailed analysis.
Note: The information provided in this article is solely based on the content provided by the user and does not reflect real-time market data.