Tariff Tensions, Fed Warnings Spark Market Volatility

From Nasdaq: 2025-05-09 12:42:00

This week, Wall Street faced renewed trade tensions, mixed economic signals, and a cautious Federal Reserve. The Fed held rates steady, warning of potential slowdowns. Economic data showed conflicting results, with the ISM services index climbing but the S&P Global U.S. services PMI falling to a multi-year low.

Investors watched a widening U.S. trade deficit and new tariffs on foreign-made films, affecting the entertainment sector. The Nasdaq Composite surged towards 18,000, while the VIX hit its lowest close in over a month. Despite this, Wall Street is eyeing its first weekly loss in three.

In the tech sector, Palantir Technologies stock fell despite a revenue win and raised full-year outlook. Advanced Micro Devices impressed with a strong quarter, while Super Micro Computer stumbled. Electric vehicle companies like Rivian Automotive and Lucid Group offered mixed results, boosting sentiment across the sector. Lyft surged after announcing a share buyback program.

Berkshire Hathaway slid as Warren Buffett announced plans to step down as CEO, while Alphabet tumbled after Apple’s Eddy Cue suggested AI could replace traditional search engines. New tariffs on foreign films impacted Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. Semiconductors rebounded despite ongoing tariff turmoil.

Next week, focus shifts to inflation data with the CPI and PPI releases shaping expectations for the Fed’s next move. Earnings reports from Alibaba, Deere, and Walmart are anticipated. Analysts predict potential upside for the SPX and break down what a bullish outside day means for traders.



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