New York, September 29, 2025 – U.S. stock markets closed moderately higher on Monday. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite Indexes rose, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average was virtually unchanged.
S&P 500 and Nasdaq Indexes Rise on Investor Confidence
Investors continued to buy technology stocks, ignoring the risks of a U.S. government shutdown and tough statements from Federal Reserve officials.
Technology Drives Markets Higher
Technology stocks were the main driver of growth. Interest in artificial intelligence companies is fueling demand for shares of industry leaders, including Nvidia and Microsoft. Market participants are also betting on a Fed rate cut, which should support the sector going forward.
Amid falling global oil prices, the energy sector was the weakest performer among the eleven industries in the S&P 500.
Corporate Events
Electronic Arts rose 4.6% after announcing a $55 billion buyout deal.
Lam Research shares gained 2.6% after Deutsche Bank changed its recommendation from “hold” to “buy.”
AppLovin jumped 5.4% to a new high. The rise was supported by Morgan Stanley, which raised its target price from $480 to $750.
Cannabis Stocks Soar
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement of the benefits of cannabidiol, shares of companies in the sector surged. Tilray Brands gained more than 48%, Canopy Growth rose 17%, and Cronos Group rose 15%.
Trading Session Results
By midday in New York, the figures looked like this:
- Dow Jones Industrial Average — +0.02%, to 46,255.19
- S&P 500 — +0.23%, to 6,658.68
- Nasdaq Composite — +0.53%, to 22,604.17
On the NYSE, rising stocks outnumbered decliners by a ratio of 1.22 to 1. On the Nasdaq, the ratio was 1.18 to 1.
Investors are closely watching the upcoming US jobs report, expected in the next few days. The data will play a major role in shaping the Federal Reserve’s decision on whether to implement another rate cut at the end of October.
The labor market results are also seen as a critical factor for the bond market, potentially influencing yields and investor sentiment.
