S&P 500 Holds Narrow Gain Intel Extends Rally

Markets drift as tariff concerns and possible government action in Intel shape daily moves.

S&P 500 Holds Narrow Gain Intel Extends Rally Tapestry Slumps

Stocks drifted on Thursday as the S&P 500 edged up less than 0.1% to another record close, while the Nasdaq and Dow were little changed. Intel stock jumped more than 7% after reports that the U.S. government could take a stake in the chipmaker, a sign that policy headlines can move tech names. Tapestry shares fell after the company cut its full year profit outlook, citing tariff pressures. A separate report showed wholesale prices rising more than expected, fueling concerns that tariffs could push consumer prices higher and complicate the Federal Reserve path to rate cuts.

The day’s moves underscore how policy chatter and inflation data are shaping investor sentiment more than individual earnings at the moment. Traders are watching for signs from Washington and the Fed about the durability of price pressures and the path for interest rates, while corporate headlines add texture to the mood. The broader market posted a marginal gain, with the Nasdaq and Dow showing small declines as volatility came back into focus.

Looking at the day as a whole, the market seems to be in a wait-and-see mode. Intel’s rally highlights how policy talk can lift specific stocks even as tariff risk keeps a lid on broader gains. The weakness in Tapestry points to how tariff costs can erode margins for consumer brands and slow demand for discretionary goods. The mix suggests investors are weighing short term policy signals against longer term growth prospects.

Tariffs and policy questions are likely to stay in focus as inflation data and potential Fed guidance approach. The risk is that markets could price in policy risk too quickly, leaving little room for upside surprises if earnings pickup and inflation cools. In the longer run, the challenge remains how supply chains and pricing respond to protectionist pressures while growth stays intact.

Highlights

Markets will keep tracking policy moves as the week unfolds.