On Thursday, March 21st, U.S. stock markets closed higher for a second day, buoyed by the Federal Reserve’s hints at upcoming rate cuts and a surge in chip stocks following Micron Technology’s positive forecast.
In economic data, U.S. jobless claims fell to 210,000, beating estimates of 215,000. The current account deficit narrowed to $194.8 billion, less than the expected $209 billion. Service PMI dipped to 51.7, and manufacturing PMI rose to a 21-month high of 52.5.
Nine of the S&P 500’s eleven sectors saw gains, led by industrials. Utilities and communications sectors lagged behind.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.68% to close at ...