The Dow Jones Industrial Average set new record highs for the third consecutive day on Tuesday, as blue chip stocks led the way in a broader market rally. The Dow surged by over 600 points, or 1.5%, with UnitedHealth (UNH) driving much of the gains after reporting better-than-expected earnings.
The Russell 2000 also rose nearly 3%, on track for its fifth straight day of gains. Caterpillar, an industrial bellwether, climbed more than 4% in the Dow. Bank of America and Morgan Stanley both added to their gains following strong earnings reports.
Despite the positive momentum in the market, some sectors saw declines. Tech-heavy stocks such as Nvidia (NVDA) fell despite a bullish analyst call, while communication services stocks like Microsoft (MSFT), Meta Platforms (META), and Alphabet (GOOGL) also dipped.
The Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cuts have been a major driver of the market rally in recent days. The central bank is widely expected to cut rates as soon as September, which has boosted investor confidence and fueled gains in stocks across various sectors.
Earnings reports from major companies have also contributed to the market's positive momentum. Bank of America reported earnings that came in ahead of analyst forecasts, while Morgan Stanley's strong results helped lift the stock.
Homebuilder stocks were another bright spot on Tuesday, with the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF (XHB) rising more than 4% and breaking out of a double-bottom base pattern. Towing and recovery equipment firm Miller Industries also cleared a flat base buy point of 61.87, while medical stock RadNet cleared a weekly chart flat base entry of 64.06.
Despite the overall positive sentiment in the market, some stocks saw declines. Viapoint Energy is clearing a cup base but has yet to reach its ideal buy point of 41.22, while United Rentals (URI) and Toll Brothers (TOL) both dipped slightly.
The Dow's record-setting streak comes as the broader market continues to recover from a rough start to the year. The S&P 500 is now up over 8% on the year, while the Nasdaq Composite has gained nearly 18% since its lows in March.
The Dow's surge past 40,000 for the first time earlier this year followed a surge for Walmart's shares that peaked at an all-time high. It took just over three years for the index to reach that milestone after eclipsing 30,000 in November 2022.
The S&P 500 has also set several all-time intraday highs in recent weeks, including a record of 5,666.94 set on Monday. The index is on pace to break its record close of 5,633.91 set last week.
The Dow's rally has been fueled by optimism surrounding artificial intelligence and the prospect of interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve.