The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) was down 179.13 points (-0.3650%) today, Monday, February 2nd, 2026, reflecting a mixed trading session. Dow Futures (YM=F) also indicated a slight downturn, dropping 117.00 points (-0.2379%). The primary narrative driving market activity appeared to be a significant company-specific event impacting Verizon Communications (VZ), which saw an extraordinary surge.
Verizon Communications (VZ) led the gainers with an impressive 10.70% increase, likely fueled by a major positive announcement such as strong earnings or a strategic business development. Following Verizon, Chevron (CVX) also posted a robust gain of 3.38%, while Coca-Cola (KO) was up 1.76%. Other notable advancers included Merck & Co. (MRK) rising 1.72% and Walmart (WMT) increasing by 1.40%.
Conversely, several components of the Dow experienced declines. Visa (V) was the biggest loser, falling 2.87%. UnitedHealth Group (UNH) and 3M Company (MMM) both saw declines of 2.06%. American Express (AXP) was down 1.95%, and Nike (NKE) decreased by 1.45%. The broad market's slight decline, despite some strong individual performances, suggests that while specific company news can drive significant stock movements, broader economic sentiment or other factors kept the overall index in negative territory.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.