FX.co ★ Dow, S&P Gain as Nasdaq Struggles Amid Trade Worries

The S&P 500 experienced a 0.5% increase on Monday, with the Dow achieving a 417-point gain, setting a positive tone for the week. In contrast, the Nasdaq 100 underperformed, decreasing by 0.2% as investors contended with concerns about economic growth and rising trade tensions. Market apprehensions were heightened by President Trump's announcement of more extensive tariffs, including a proposed 25% duty on all non-U.S. manufactured vehicles effective April 2. Defensive stocks showed strength, with Coca-Cola and Walmart advancing by 1.8% and 3.1%, respectively, while technology stocks faced downward pressure—Nvidia and Microsoft declined by 1.2% and 0.9%. The automotive sector presented mixed results, with Tesla dropping by 1.7%, contrasted by gains for GM and Ford at 0.7% and 3.1%. The S&P 500 experienced a 6.3% decline in March, marking its most significant monthly drop since the 9.3% decrease in September 2022. The Nasdaq has fallen 8% this month, and the Dow has decreased by 5%. Over the quarter, the S&P 500 retreated by 5%, ending a five-quarter streak of gains, while the Nasdaq plummeted by 10.9%, its most pronounced quarterly drop since the second quarter of 2022. The Dow's year-to-date performance shows a decline of 1.6%.