Major United States benchmark averages finished slightly higher on Tuesday (Wednesday AEDT), touching fresh two-week highs as investors assessed the potential scope of U.S. tariffs and economic data.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average ticked up 4.2 points, or 0.01%, to settle at 42,587.5, the S&P 500 added 0.2% to close at 5,776.7, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.5%, ending at 18,271.9.
Markets showed resilience despite a weaker-than-expected consumer confidence report. The Conference Board’s monthly index dropped to a four-year low of 92.9, missing forecasts of 94, while the expectations component plunged to a 12-year low of 65.2, raising concerns about future economic conditions.
Investors remained focused on trade policy as the White House signalled a possible narrowing of upcoming reciprocal tariffs, set to take effect on 2 April.
President Donald Trump suggested some nations might receive exemptions but confirmed that duties on industries such as pharmaceuticals and autos remain under consideration.
On the bond markets, 10-year and 2-year yields eased 0.5% apiece to 4.315% and 4.020%, respectively.
