Before The Bell
The U.S. stock market put in a weak session yesterday, with notable losses on the NASDAQ. Specifically, the technology laden index finished the day roughly 2.5% lower. In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average managed to make some progress earlier in the morning, but encountered selling as the session came to a close. Once again, traders seemed concerned that the economic recovery could create in inflationary pressures, which might lead to higher interest rates down the road. Overnight, the international markets retreated. In Asia, the Nikkei traded sharply lower. In Europe, the FTSE 100 lost ground, as well. On our shores, the equity futures are all in the red, suggesting a soft opening to today’s session.
Meanwhile, the first-quarter earnings season is in its final phase. By now, almost all of the large corporations have weighed in with their results. For the most part, profits have exceeded expectations. However, it should be noted, that a number of companies have cited rising costs, particularly for materials, energy commodities, and labor. This development could prompt some businesses to institute incremental price increases, in response. After the closing bell yesterday, we heard from Wynn Resorts (WYNN). The casino and resort operator posted softer-than-expected results for the quarter, due largely to the challenging climate. In addition, retail REIT, Simon Property Group (SPG) posted a constructive report and provided an upbeat outlook. Earlier today, Hanesbrands (HBI), a large apparel manufacturer, delivered positive results. Later this afternoon, we will from Electronic Arts (EA), a leading electronic gaming and media company.
In economic news, there were no reports released yesterday, and no major issuances are due out today. However, on Wednesday, we will get a look at the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the month of April. On Thursday, the Producer Price Index (PPI) will follow. Given the recent concerns about inflation, these figures will likely be closely watched by investors. In addition, the latest weekly jobless claims will be delivered on Thursday, and that report usually receives some attention.
Technically, the S&P 500 Index has managed to edge higher lately. However, it should be noted that the NASDAQ has not been keeping pace, as traders have been rotating out of dynamic technology names into industrial and cyclical stocks. This move may be due to the fact that many technology issues were the favored by investors during the early part of the pandemic, and as a result, have been trading at elevated valuations. Further, other types of businesses now seem well positioned to benefit as the economy reopens.
– Adam Rosner
At the time of this article’s writing, the author did not have positions in any of the companies mentioned.
