Stock Market Today: Dow, S&P, Nasdaq Edge Higher Amid Rate-Cut Bets and Ukraine Tensions

Introduction

U.S. stocks opened cautiously higher on Monday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite posting modest gains as investors weighed upcoming economic data, Federal Reserve rate-cut expectations, and fresh developments from Ukraine.

Wall Street Opens in the Green

The Dow added early momentum, climbing as investors rotated into defensive sectors. The S&P 500 held steady near record territory, while the Nasdaq recovered from last week’s pullback, led by gains in major tech names.

Fed Rate-Cut Outlook in Focus

Traders are closely monitoring signals from the Federal Reserve, with futures markets pricing in the possibility of multiple rate cuts later this year. Lower borrowing costs could provide support to equities, particularly in the technology and retail sectors.

Ukraine Conflict Adds Market Caution

Geopolitical tensions remain a headwind, as the situation in Ukraine continues to inject volatility into global markets. Safe-haven assets like gold and Treasuries saw increased demand, underscoring investor caution despite equities moving higher.

Retail Earnings Ahead

Wall Street is also looking ahead to a busy week of retail earnings, with companies like Walmart and Target expected to provide insight into consumer spending trends. Analysts suggest that results could be a catalyst for the broader market.

Outlook

With volatility lingering, investors remain cautious but optimistic. The mix of potential Fed rate cuts, earnings data, and geopolitical risk will likely guide the stock market over the next few sessions.