Stocks rise as fears of tariffs eased, boosting chip stocks and M&A activity.

From Nasdaq

March 24, 2025 12:51:00 PM:

1. Stock indexes are up today, with the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq 100 reaching 2-week highs. Reports suggest upcoming US reciprocal tariffs will be more targeted, alleviating market concerns. President Trump plans a tariff announcement on April 2, focusing on expansion with less global impact.
2. The Magnificent Seven stocks and chip stocks are boosting the market today. M&A activity is strong, with James Hardie Industries acquiring Azek Co for $8.75 billion. Economic news is mixed, with the Feb Chicago Fed index rising and S&P Global manufacturing PMI contracting unexpectedly.
3. Attention this week is on economic reports like new home sales and consumer confidence. Geopolitical risks persist in the Middle East, affecting stock markets. Recent US tariffs have caused market pressure, with fears of weakened growth and earnings.
4. Interest rates show a decline in T-notes today due to stock rally and eased inflation concerns. European bond yields are mixed, with the Eurozone manufacturing PMI rising but the UK PMI falling unexpectedly. Swaps predict a rate cut by ECB at the April meeting.
5. US stock movers include Tesla, Nvidia, and Amazon leading gains. Chip stocks like AMD and ARM Holdings are rallying. Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are up, with Bitcoin prices rising. M&A activity boosts companies like Azek Co and Coherent Corp.
6. Defensive food and beverage stocks like Hormel Foods and Kraft Heinz are under pressure today. Super Micro Computer leads losers after a downgrade. Lockheed Martin is down after losing a US fighter jet contract. Earnings reports include companies like KB Home and Aerovate Therapeutics.

Read more at Nasdaq: Stocks Climb as Easing Tariff Worries Spark Risk-On in Asset Markets