The Dow slumped to a loss
U.S. stocks finished the day mixed following Monday's strong performance. An earnings disappointment from Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) put pressure on the Dow, while the S&P and Nasdaq managed to end with modest gains, as investors continued to digest the earlier bulk of economic and manufacturing data that hit the Street. Nevertheless, the blue-chip index remained above the notable 26,000 mark, while the latter two each marked a fourth straight win.
Continue reading for more on today's market, including:
- This Apple supplier flashed a hot bull signal.
- Why Facebook is a top pick at Deutsche Bank.
- This biotech just had its best day ever on the back of FDA buzz.
- Plus, Lyft's first bear note; a popping penny stock; and Shopify stock could be ready to bounce.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 26,179.13) fell 79.3 points, or 0.3%, today. Apple (AAPL) paced the nine advancing blue chips and added 1.4%, while WBA was the biggest loser, shedding 12.8%.
The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,867.24) closed fractionally higher, as the Nasdaq Composite (IXIC - 7,848.69) added 19.8 points, or 0.3%.
The Cboe Volatility Index (VIX - 13.36) shed 0.04 point, or 0.3%.
5 Items on our Radar Today
- According to a report from the Commerce Department, online sales have made history by narrowly surpassing those of brick-and-mortar stores for the first time ever in February. Online shopping is now the fourth-largest sector overall, bringing in just under $60 billion in adjusted sales for February. (CNBC)
- Energy giant Chevron (CVX) was ordered to pay $21 million to the family of two brothers who died of cancer after working as spray booth operators for multiple decades in its factories. Gary and Randy Eaves each died at the age of 61 of varying cancers, after both having worked directly with a toxic benzene solvent in the Arkansas-based factory without proper safety training. (MarketWatch)
- Lyft stock landed its first bear note.
- One penny stock just spiked on a positive headline.
- History says Shopify stock may be ready to bounce.
There are no earnings of note.
Data courtesy of Trade-Alert
Crude Brings Its Win Streak to 3
Easing economic growth worries and news of tightening global supply pushed oil futures higher. The May-dated contract finished up 99 cents, or 1.6%, at $62.58 per barrel -- its third straight win.
Gold eked out a modest gain, even as the dollar strengthened. June gold futures closed up $1.20 at $1,295.40 per ounce.