US equity markets demonstrated robust gains on Thursday, driven by positive economic data and easing concerns surrounding potential trade impacts. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 34,484 points, marking a 0.5% increase from the previous day’s trading.
Shortly before the market close in New York, the broader S&P 500 reached approximately 4,295 points, up 0.6%, while the Nasdaq 100 was valued at around 13,078 points, reflecting a 0.7% increase. Both indices previously touched new record highs during the trading session.
Investor sentiment was buoyed by indications that tariffs introduced by the US administration have, at least for now, not significantly impacted retail sales or unemployment figures. June retail sales rebounded and initial jobless claims for the week ending July 12th fell to the lowest level in three months, suggesting continued economic resilience.
The euro weakened against the US dollar, trading at $1.1597, equivalent to €0.8623 per dollar.
Gold prices also experienced a decline, with a fine ounce fetching $1,930 (-0.2%). This translates to €68.60 per gram.
Conversely, oil prices saw a significant increase. Brent crude futures were trading at $69.58 per barrel late Thursday, representing a 1.6% rise compared to the close of the previous trading day.
