U.S. equity markets experienced a positive turn on Monday, with the CNN Money Fear and Greed Index indicating a shift toward neutrality. The S&P 500 halted its six-session losing streak, closing higher. Economic data, such as the Chicago Fed National Activity Index, surpassed expectations, reflecting improving economic conditions. Zions Bancorporation emerged as a notable performer, with its shares soaring by 4% following strong earnings results.
However, Verizon Communications faced headwinds, with its stock declining by 5% post-first-quarter announcement. All sectors within the S&P 500 closed higher, with financials, utilities, and information technology leading the gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 254 points, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 1.11%.
Investors eagerly await earnings reports from prominent companies like Tesla, General Motors, Visa, and PepsiCo. The Fear and Greed Index, currently at 37.6, remains in the ‘Fear’ zone, signaling a cautious market sentiment.