Stock Market Update: S&P 500 Dips as Fed Holds Rates, Nasdaq Gains Ahead of Earnings

Jan 30, 2026, 2:22 AM

Hover over text to view sources

US stock markets showed little change on Wednesday, as the Federal Reserve opted to keep interest rates steady in its first policy decision of the year. The announcement came as Wall Street prepared for a series of earnings reports from major technology firms, leading to varied performance across major indices.

The S&P 500 index experienced a fractional decline after briefly surpassing the 7,000 mark earlier in the day. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite gained approximately 0.2%, indicating investor confidence in the technology sector, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average remained relatively unchanged.

The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain interest rates in a range of 3.5% to 3.75% was widely anticipated, resulting in a 10-2 vote among its governors. Notably, Governors Chris Waller and Stephen Miran expressed dissent, advocating for a 25 basis point cut. Following the announcement, market analysts focused their attention on Chair Jerome Powell's press conference, seeking insights into potential future rate cuts.

Investor sentiment was further influenced by the recent fluctuations of the US dollar, which had fallen to its lowest level since 2022 earlier this week. The dollar's recovery on Wednesday raised concerns about a possible economic downturn, especially after President Trump downplayed the dollar's slump following his administration's tariff policies. The central bank's rate decision also occurs amid heightened political scrutiny and speculation regarding Powell's future, as Trump has indicated he may soon announce Powell's successor.

In the technology sector, a surge in orders for ASML's chipmaking equipment has fueled optimism about the sustained growth of artificial intelligence (AI). However, shares of ASML fell, while companies like Nvidia and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) benefitted from the positive market sentiment, given their reliance on ASML's technology for chip production.

The focus now shifts to earnings reports from major tech players such as Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Tesla, which are all scheduled to release their results shortly. These companies have made significant investments in AI infrastructure, and their upcoming reports are expected to reflect these strategic moves. Analysts are particularly keen on how these earnings will impact stock performance in the days ahead, especially with Apple set to announce its quarterly results on Thursday.

As the market anticipates these pivotal earnings announcements, investors remain cautious yet hopeful. The mixed performance of major indices highlights ongoing uncertainty in the market, influenced by both economic policies and technological advancements. The coming days will likely provide further clarity on market directions as earnings season progresses.

Overall, the stock market is navigating through a complex landscape shaped by monetary policy, economic indicators, and the ever-evolving technology sector. Investors will be closely monitoring these developments as they seek to position themselves for potential opportunities in the coming weeks.

Alphabet and Amazon Surge as AI Spending Fuels Tech Earnings

As artificial intelligence continues to drive capital expenditures, Alphabet and Amazon reported significant revenue growth in their recent earnings. The tech giants are investing heavily in AI infrastructure, with forecasts suggesting a combined spending surge exceeding $500 billion this year.

S&P 500 Dips as Fed Holds Rates Steady, Nasdaq Gains Ahead of Earnings

The S&P 500 index experienced a slight decline after the Federal Reserve opted to maintain interest rates, while the Nasdaq Composite saw a modest increase. Investors are now focused on upcoming earnings reports from major tech companies like Microsoft and Meta Platforms.

Stock Market Opens Strong: Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq Rise Ahead of Key Earnings

US stocks experienced gains on Monday, with the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all rising as investors prepared for a crucial week of earnings reports from major tech companies and a Federal Reserve rate decision. The market remains optimistic despite ongoing political uncertainties.

Stock Market Update: S&P 500 Dips as Nasdaq Gains Ahead of Tech Earnings

US stock markets showed mixed results today as the S&P 500 slightly retreated from its record high, following the Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates steady. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite rose modestly, buoyed by optimism around upcoming earnings reports from major technology firms.

Stock Market Opens Strong Ahead of Big Tech Earnings and Fed Decision

US stock markets rose on Monday, with the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all posting gains. The increase reflects optimism ahead of critical earnings reports from major tech companies and a Federal Reserve meeting that could impact interest rates.