Market Overview: Tech Leads Gains Amid Broader Economic Signals
Stocks closed at a fresh all-time high as the tech sector led a robust rally, with Treasury yields dropping on expectations that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates this year in response to signs of disinflation. The S&P 500 secured its fourth consecutive record, marking its 29th record this year, buoyed by late trading surges, notably Adobe Inc., which soared following a positive outlook.
In bond markets, Treasuries gained traction as the 10-year yields dipped below 4.3%, bolstered by strong demand during a $22 billion sale of US 30-year bonds. The producer price index delivered a surprise, showing the most significant drop in seven months, further evidence that inflation pressures are easing. This decrease was reflected in several key categories of the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge—the personal consumption expenditures price index—which softened in May.
Meanwhile, European Union bonds faced challenges as expectations of their inclusion in major sovereign benchmarks diminished, affecting the attractiveness of the bloc’s debt. In France, political risks pushed the spread on 10-year bonds to its widest since 2017 compared to German bonds, signaling increasing investor caution.
The fervor for technology stocks continues unabated among mutual funds, which have significantly increased their tech holdings since early 2024, reaching an all-time high according to Barclays Plc strategists, while reducing exposure in other sectors.
Corporate Updates:
- Boeing Co. ( $BA)is inspecting undelivered 787 Dreamliners following the discovery of incorrectly installed fasteners, highlighting ongoing quality concerns.
- Ford Motor Co. ( $F)announced that its full range of electric vehicles would be available through all 2,800 of its U.S. dealers, aiming to enhance sales amid lukewarm consumer interest.
- Snowflake Inc. ( $SNOW) is set to conclude its investigation into a hacking incident that potentially affected up to 165 customers.
- John R. Tysonhas been suspended as CFO of Tyson Foods Inc. following a charge of alleged drunken driving, marking his second such arrest in two years.
- The S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Starbucks Corp. against the National Labor Relations Board, a decision that complicates the agency’s efforts to secure temporary reinstatement for workers dismissed during labor disputes.