US equity markets posted gains on Tuesday, though investor sentiment remained cautious amid looming political uncertainties. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 46,298 points, a 0.2% increase from the previous day’s close.
The broader S&P 500 reached approximately 6,688 points, reflecting a 0.4% gain, while the Nasdaq 100 index stood at around 24,680 points, up 0.3% at the same time.
Investor concern centered on the possibility of a US government shutdown beginning Wednesday, stemming from an ongoing impasse between Republicans and Democrats regarding the debt ceiling. A failure to reach an agreement could have significant ramifications for government operations.
Adding to the cautious atmosphere, the Conference Board published its latest consumer confidence survey, revealing a marked deterioration in consumer perceptions of the current economic climate. Concerns regarding the labor market were specifically highlighted as a source of anxiety for consumers.
The euro strengthened slightly against the dollar on Tuesday evening, trading at $1.1736, with the dollar fetching €0.8521.
Gold prices saw a corresponding uplift, reaching $3,852 per fine ounce (+0.5%), equivalent to €105.53 per gram.
In contrast, oil prices experienced a notable decrease. Brent crude, a benchmark grade of North Sea oil, closed at $67.02 per barrel, a decline of $0.95, or 1.4%, compared to the previous day’s closing price.
