Nasdaq Gains Amid Consumer Sentiment and Trade Policy Speculations

The Nasdaq closed higher on Tuesday as Apple gained and Nvidia declined. Investors focused on consumer sentiment and possible trade policy changes. Trump's hint at automobile tariffs and potential tariff enforcement sparked uncertainty, affecting S&P 500. Tesla's market share dipped, and Moody's warned of declining U.S. fiscal strength.

The Nasdaq finished on a positive note Tuesday, buoyed by Apple's rise, even as Nvidia saw a decline. Market participants scrutinized consumer sentiment data while anticipating a shift in trade policy from the Trump administration next week.

President Trump indicated automobile tariffs would soon be imposed, yet hinted not all proposed tariffs would be enacted, leaving Wall Street teetering on speculation. Ross Mayfield, an investment strategist at Baird, remarked on investors' urgent need for clarity amidst these tensions.

Amid concerns that Trump's tariffs could incite inflation and dampen economic growth, the S&P 500 is down roughly 2% in 2025, potentially marking its first quarterly loss since June 2023. Meanwhile, Tesla's market share in Europe continued to fall, and Moody's noted a worrisome decline in U.S. fiscal strength.

(With inputs from agencies.)