Stock prices notched solid gains last week, looking past an increase in COVID-19 cases and any potential economic concerns raised by the trend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 climbed 1.76%. The Nasdaq Composite Index bounded 4.01% higher for the week. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed stock markets overseas, gained just 0.07%.1,2,3 |
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Virus Concerns The big technology companies continued to shine, leading the Nasdaq Composite to multiple new record highs. News of positive trial results for a potential COVID-19 treatment boosted stocks on the final trading day, closing the week on an encouraging note. On the Record Cleveland Fed President Loretta Mester said that the economy in her region is slowing due to rising COVID-19 cases. She linked gains in combating the virus with further economic progress. She also echoed earlier comments by Fed Chairman Powell that more fiscal support is necessary.4 Meanwhile, San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly observed that it was unlikely many companies would be rehiring all their employees. Thomas Barkin, president of Richmond Federal Reserve, reiterated the challenges of a labor recovery, but also spoke of the strain on local and state governments.5,6 THIS WEEK: KEY ECONOMIC DATA Source: Econoday, July 10, 2020 THIS WEEK: COMPANIES REPORTING EARNINGS Source: Zacks, July 10, 2020 |
1. The Wall Street Journal, July 10, 2020 2. The Wall Street Journal, July 10, 2020 3. The Wall Street Journal, July 10, 2020 4. CNBC, July 7, 2020 5. MarketWatch, July 7, 2020 6. MarketWatch, July 7, 2020 |
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Weekly Market Insights: Stocks Gain After Volatile Week
