Dow Jones Today: Indices Rise on Cisco Surge, But DOJ Probe Hits UnitedHealth

Dow Rises as Cisco and Amgen Rally, But UnitedHealth Weighs on Gains

The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 162 points, or 0.4%, in Thursday’s early afternoon trading as optimism over a U.S.-China tariff pause lifted sentiment. Gains were curbed by a sharp selloff in UnitedHealth shares following reports of a federal investigation. The S&P 500 also advanced 0.4% for a fourth straight session, while the Nasdaq rose 0.1%.

Which Dow Stocks Are Driving the Index Higher?

Cisco Systems led the Dow, surging 6.3% after beating third-quarter earnings estimates and raising its annual forecast. The company also announced a CFO transition, which was well received by investors. Amgen and IBM added further support, each gaining over 3%. These moves helped offset weakness in other parts of the index.

How Did UnitedHealth’s Drop Impact the Dow?

UnitedHealth Group dragged heavily on the Dow, falling 15% to a five-year low. The Wall Street Journal reported the DOJ is investigating the insurer for potential Medicare fraud. Although UnitedHealth stated it has not been notified of such a probe, investor concerns mounted. The drop also pressured other health insurers like Humana and Molina Healthcare.

Are Broader Market Trends Still Favorable?

Investor confidence has strengthened following a temporary truce in the U.S.-China trade dispute, reached after recent talks between Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese officials. Major tech names like Nvidia and Tesla, each up over 13% this week, helped lift the Nasdaq 6% week-to-date. The S&P 500 and Dow are up 3.9% and 1.7%, respectively, so far this week.

What Do Economic Data and Retail Earnings Say About Inflation and Demand?

April’s Producer Price Index unexpectedly declined by 0.5%, defying expectations of a 0.3% increase and signaling easing input costs. Retail sales rose just 0.1%, in line with forecasts, while industrial production dipped more than projected. Meanwhile, Walmart fell 1.1% after warning that tariffs could drive prices higher, despite topping earnings estimates. The retailer did not issue Q2 guidance, adding to concerns.

What’s the Outlook for Traders Watching the Fed and Tariffs?

While this week’s rally reflects optimism over de-escalating trade tensions, uncertainty remains. The Federal Reserve has signaled a potential reassessment of inflation and employment benchmarks, suggesting caution.

Traders will focus on incoming inflation data and any shifts in Fed commentary for clues on rate policy, particularly as tariff implications ripple through earnings and consumer prices.

More Information in our Economic Calendar.