Stocks Close Flat as "Fear Gauge" Pops

Stocks finished their relatively modest trading day flat or higher, as all eyes locked in on tomorrow's start to the Fed's two-day policy meeting. A 10-1 stock split with semiconductor sweetheart Nvidia (NVDA) was just enough to keep the tech-heavy Nasdaq from tacking on a third-straight loss. Even further, the index and S&P 500 managed to eke out record closes.* The stock market's "fear gauge," or Cboe Volatility Index (VIX), snapped a three-day losing streak.

*Editor's Note: In a previous version we stated the Nasdaq closed with a third-straight loss. We apologize for the error.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Homebuilding favorite flashes bullish entry point.
• Bulls run red-hot on buzzing Apple stock.
• Plus; playing the crypto craze; three outperformers; and Nvidia rival dragged.

5 Things to Know Today

1. Transcontinental flights are getting a boost for Delta Air Lines (DAL) passengers, after the company announced plans to bring premium economy to the flights in September. (CNBC)
2. Theories are bouncing around as to why gasoline prices have dropped as much as 10 cents in the past week. (MarketWatch)
3. Is the crypto rally sustainable this summer?
4. 3 stocks enjoyed the S&P 500 bump.
5. Nvidia rival falling behind the leader.

There are no corporate earnings to report today.

Gold, Oil Sport Modest Wins

On the back of hope for stronger energy demand, July-dated West Intermediate (WTI) crude tacked on $2.21, or 2.9%, to close at $77.74 per barrel, black gold's best single-session pop since February.

Following Friday's steep fall, gold managed to recover its inflation-driven losses. The June-dated commodity closed up 0.2%, to settle at $2,328.50 an ounce.