Major Indexes Continue Positive Momentum
As of midday Friday, April 25, 2025, the U.S. stock market is extending its winning streak, with major indexes showing mixed but generally positive performance. The S&P 500 is up 0.07% at 5,488.34, continuing its upward trajectory for the fourth consecutive session. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite is showing stronger gains, rising 0.43% to 17,239.14, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average is down slightly by 0.45% at 39,913.88.
This week has been particularly strong for the markets, with the S&P 500 gaining nearly 4% week-to-date, the Nasdaq Composite up more than 5%, and the Dow advancing over 2% since Monday.
Tech Giants Lead Market Gains
Technology stocks are driving today’s market performance, with several “Magnificent Seven” companies posting significant gains. Alphabet (GOOGL) shares have jumped 2.45% following impressive first-quarter results released yesterday. The Google parent company reported earnings of $2.81 per share on revenue of $90.23 billion, handily beating analyst expectations of $2.01 per share and $89.12 billion in revenue.
In contrast, Intel (INTC) shares have plummeted 6.77% after disappointing guidance for the current quarter. The chipmaker projected revenue of approximately $11.8 billion for the June quarter, below consensus estimates of $12.82 billion. Intel also announced plans to reduce operational and capital expenses amid challenging market conditions.
Other notable movers include Tesla (TSLA), which has surged 7.79% to $279.73, while Nvidia (NVDA) is up 2.22% as tech investors appear to be regaining confidence.
Trade Tensions and Economic Outlook
Market sentiment continues to be influenced by ongoing trade tensions, particularly with China. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated yesterday that there are currently no trade talks taking place with the U.S. and called for the cancellation of “unilateral” tariffs. This comes after President Trump indicated a willingness to take a less confrontational approach toward trade negotiations with Beijing.
Anthony Saglimbene, chief market strategist at Ameriprise, noted: “I think that really all the market needed was just a little spark to kind of move it off some of these depressed levels, and I think that’s what we’re seeing.” However, he cautioned that markets are “still in for a period of choppiness around stock trading.”
Upcoming Market Events
Investors are closely watching today’s release of the University of Michigan’s revised Consumer Sentiment data, which could provide insights into consumer confidence and spending patterns.
Looking ahead to next week’s economic calendar, key data releases will include consumer credit figures on Monday, the NFIB small business optimism index on Tuesday, and crucial inflation data with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report on Thursday.
Market Outlook
As global trade policies continue to evolve and earnings season progresses, market volatility may persist. However, strong performances from key tech companies could provide further momentum to the recent rally. Investors should remain vigilant about upcoming economic data and corporate earnings reports, which will likely determine market direction in the coming weeks.
With the S&P 500 having exited correction territory and major indexes posting solid gains this week, market sentiment appears to be cautiously optimistic despite ongoing economic uncertainties and trade tensions.
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.