Why did the S&P 500 reach a 1.5-week high?

The S&P 500 reached a 1.5-week high due to strength in semiconductor stocks and increased optimism about a potential Federal Reserve interest rate cut.

What is the current market sentiment on Fed rate cuts?

Market sentiment strongly favors a Federal Reserve rate cut, with the probability rising to 81% for the December FOMC meeting.

How did recent US economic data impact the stock market?

Positive US economic data, including a drop in jobless claims and a rise in capital goods orders, boosted market confidence and supported stock gains.

Home / Business and Economy / Markets Surge on Fed Rate Cut Hopes & Strong Data

Markets Surge on Fed Rate Cut Hopes & Strong Data

28 Nov

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Summary

Stock indexes hit 1.5-week highs, driven by semiconductor strength.
Optimism for Fed rate cut rises to 81% on dovish comments.
Weekly jobless claims fell to a 7-month low, boosting confidence.

Markets Surge on Fed Rate Cut Hopes & Strong Data

US stock markets experienced a significant upward trend today, with major indexes like the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials reaching their highest levels in approximately 1.5 weeks. This rally was notably supported by strong performance in semiconductor stocks, which lifted the broader market sentiment. Despite a late-day pullback after the Chicago PMI report indicated a 17-month low in manufacturing activity, the overall market trajectory remained positive.

The driving force behind this optimism appears to be the increasing likelihood of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut. Market sentiment has improved considerably as bond yields have decreased amid weaker economic indicators and dovish remarks from Fed officials. Consequently, the probability of a rate cut at the upcoming December FOMC meeting has surged to 81%, a stark increase from just 30% last week.