Today’s Market Wrap Up and a Glimpse Into Wednesday

A winning streak on Wall Street came to a screeching halt today after all three of the major indices finished in the red. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500 and Nasdaq all ended the day lower after Monday’s record session.

The Nasdaq fell more than 1% as tech stocks tumbled. Investors appear to be taking some profits after five days of gains.

Technology leaders reported their earnings after the closing bell, including Google parent Alphabet, Microsoft and Apple. All three companies shined in different areas, while revenues were strong all around.

Durable Goods orders for items such as vehicles and appliances increased last month, the latest data show, in yet another sign that the economic recovery is in full swing. Supply-chain constraints continue to be a problem, however.

The results buoyed General Electric shares, which climbed 1% higher. GE also reported Q2 earnings, and its aviation division is poised to benefit from a rebound in the travel industry.

The FOMC began a two-day meeting today. And while inflation will no doubt be at the center of the discussions, economists are not expecting any surprises. Stock index futures are under pressure, with the Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq all moving lower. Dow futures are down nearly 100 points on Tuesday evening.

Stocks to Watch

• Apple’s earnings were better than expected, while iPhone sales increased 50% vs. year-ago levels to USD 39.6 billion. The stock is down more than 1% in extended-hours trading as investors worry if Apple can keep the good times rolling, especially in light of chip supply issues.
• Microsoft just flipped green in after-hours trading with the stock up 1%. The company outperformed analyst estimates on the top and bottom lines. Fourth-quarter revenues soared more than 20% to USD 46.2 billion. Microsoft has a market cap of USD 2.15 trillion.
• Google parent Alphabet far exceeded Wall Street estimates and benefited from robust online advertising sales.

Look Ahead

The earnings parade is far from over, with Facebook, PayPal, McDonald’s and more all on tap for Wednesday. In addition, Dow stock Boeing will unveil its Q2 results before the opening bell. The company is widely expected to report a loss as it continues to grapple with 787 jet airliner setbacks.