European Investor
25 Jun 2026, 20:01
U.S. stocks traded mixed on Thursday as investors digested a fresh batch of economic data that reinforced the resilience of the U.S. economy while keeping expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts in check. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged higher 0.1%, while the S&P 500 slipped 0.1% and the Nasdaq fell 0.6%.
Economic reports painted a mixed but generally constructive picture. First-quarter GDP was revised sharply higher to an annualized 2.1%, beating expectations and signaling stronger economic momentum than previously estimated. Initial jobless claims also surprised to the downside, falling to 215,000, indicating the labor market remains healthy. Meanwhile, durable goods orders declined 4.5% in May, though the drop was slightly smaller than the expected 5.0% decline after April's strong surge.
Technology stocks remained under pressure following this week's semiconductor-led selloff, weighing on the Nasdaq despite Micron's blockbuster quarterly results and stronger-than-expected guidance released after Wednesday's close. Investors continue to balance optimism surrounding AI-driven growth against concerns that resilient economic data could keep interest rates elevated for longer.
Overall, markets remained cautious as stronger economic fundamentals were offset by continued weakness in the technology sector and uncertainty over the Federal Reserve's next policy move.:::
Economic reports painted a mixed but generally constructive picture. First-quarter GDP was revised sharply higher to an annualized 2.1%, beating expectations and signaling stronger economic momentum than previously estimated. Initial jobless claims also surprised to the downside, falling to 215,000, indicating the labor market remains healthy. Meanwhile, durable goods orders declined 4.5% in May, though the drop was slightly smaller than the expected 5.0% decline after April's strong surge.
Technology stocks remained under pressure following this week's semiconductor-led selloff, weighing on the Nasdaq despite Micron's blockbuster quarterly results and stronger-than-expected guidance released after Wednesday's close. Investors continue to balance optimism surrounding AI-driven growth against concerns that resilient economic data could keep interest rates elevated for longer.
Overall, markets remained cautious as stronger economic fundamentals were offset by continued weakness in the technology sector and uncertainty over the Federal Reserve's next policy move.:::