​As of April 28, 2025, U.S. stock markets are experiencing cautious optimism amid ongoing trade policy uncertainties and a busy earnings calendar. Here’s an overview of the current market situation:​

📊 Market Overview

• S&P 500 ETF (SPY): $550.64 (+0.71%)

• Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (DIA): $401.02 (+0.01%)

• NASDAQ-100 ETF (QQQ): $472.56 (+1.14%)​

These modest gains reflect investor anticipation ahead of a significant week for corporate earnings and economic data releases.​

🧭 Key Market Drivers

• Earnings Season: Major tech companies, including Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms, are set to report their Q1 earnings this week. Apple has faced a 16% year-to-date decline due to tariff concerns, while Amazon’s stock was recently downgraded. Meta is also dealing with an FTC antitrust case. Domino’s Pizza shares dropped 2.5% in premarket trading after reporting weaker-than-expected Q1 U.S. same-store sales. ​

• Trade Policy Uncertainty: Investors are closely monitoring developments in U.S. trade policy, particularly regarding tariffs. The expiration of the “de minimis” trade loophole on Friday could lead to increased costs and trade frictions. Additionally, concerns about the impact of reduced U.S. imports on the economy are contributing to market volatility.

• Economic Data: This week will also bring important economic indicators, including the GDP figures and the monthly nonfarm payroll report, which investors will scrutinize for insights into economic health and labor market trends. ​

🌐 Global Market Sentiment

Global equity markets are holding at their best levels in over three weeks, reflecting some hopes that the worst of tariff pain is over. However, confusion over U.S. trade policy continues to create uncertainty. The “fear index” has fallen to 25.70 points from a record high of 52.3 points, indicating a reduction in market anxiety. 

Investors should remain vigilant as this week unfolds, keeping an eye on earnings reports, economic data, and developments in trade policy that could influence market direction.​

Market Outlook: Earnings Season and Trade Policy Uncertainty

​As of April 28, 2025, the U.S. stock market extended its rally, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average each marking their fifth consecutive day of gains. The S&P 500 inched up by 0.06% to close at 5,528.75, while the Dow added 0.28% to finish at 40,227.59. The Nasdaq Composite, however, dipped slightly by 0.10% to 17,366.13, as some mega-cap tech stocks faced pressure .​

📈 Market Highlights

• S&P 500: +0.06% to 5,528.75

• Dow Jones Industrial Average: +0.28% to 40,227.59

• Nasdaq Composite: -0.10% to 17,366.13​

This upward momentum comes ahead of a pivotal week featuring earnings reports from major technology firms, including Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms. Investors are keenly awaiting these results, which could significantly influence market direction .​

Additionally, economic indicators such as the first-quarter GDP growth estimate and the April jobs report are expected to provide further insights into the health of the economy. Analysts are particularly attentive to these data points, given the ongoing uncertainties surrounding trade policies and their potential impact on economic growth .​

Despite recent gains, the S&P 500 remains approximately 10% below its February record high, reflecting cautious optimism among investors as they navigate a complex economic landscape