FX.co ★ US Stocks Post Modest Gains

US stocks saw modest gains on Wednesday, with the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all advancing by approximately 0.3%. However, volatility may remain as investors navigate through mixed labor market data and keep a watchful eye on continuing trade tensions. The ADP report indicated that the private sector added a mere 37,000 jobs in May—the smallest increase in nearly two years and significantly below forecasts. This report follows Tuesday's JOLTS data, which unexpectedly showed stronger figures, creating a mixed outlook for labor market conditions ahead of the eagerly awaited jobs report on Friday. On the trade front, newly imposed 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports took effect today. President Trump characterized Chinese President Xi Jinping as "very tough to make a deal with," as the two leaders are scheduled to meet for discussions later this week, keeping the markets vigilant. Sector-wise, healthcare and communication services were among the top performers, while utilities lagged. In company-specific news, Nvidia rose by 0.6%, surpassing Microsoft to become the world's most valuable company.