FX.co ★ US Stocks Waver After Volatile Week

U.S. stocks remained relatively stable on Thursday following a week of volatility, as investors continued to evaluate the implications of U.S. trade dynamics on corporate earnings. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 experienced minor gains, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 150 points. Earlier in the week, equity markets found some support from President Trump's comments, suggesting that tariffs on China would not stay at the elevated 145% in the long term. Despite this, Treasury Secretary Bessent indicated that negotiations with China have yet to commence, and Beijing insists it will not enter into discussions until the U.S. reduces its tariffs, casting doubt on any near-term resolution. In corporate news, IBM shares plummeted 7% following disappointing results, Procter & Gamble fell 4% after revising its guidance downward, and Merck saw a 1.5% decrease as it adjusted its outlook due to tariff effects. Conversely, Alphabet's stock rose in anticipation of its earnings report, set to be released after market close. The latest economic indicators presented a mixed picture—while core factory shipments underperformed expectations in March, the number of outstanding jobless claims hit their lowest point this year.