Wall Street Rallies Amid U.S.-China Trade Easing

Wall Street posted weekly gains as investors reacted to earnings reports and easing U.S.-China trade tensions. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq rose, driven by AI-related stocks. The Russell 2000 had its best week since November. Analysts observed improved earnings forecasts despite economic uncertainties.

Wall Street achieved notable weekly gains on Friday, as investors processed a mix of earnings reports and sought indications of easing tensions in the ongoing U.S.-China trade dispute. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq rose, supported by a surge in artificial intelligence-related megacap stocks known as the 'magnificent seven,' while the Dow Jones remained relatively static.

The Russell 2000, reflecting small-cap stocks, recorded its largest percentage gain since November. This development followed China's move to exempt certain U.S. imports from a hefty 125% tariff, despite contradicting U.S. President Trump's negotiation claims. Recent remarks by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled potential de-escalation between the two economic powers, easing market jitters.

First-quarter earnings season is in full swing, with 73% of companies in the S&P 500 surpassing expectations. Despite this, investors focused on future forecasts amid economic uncertainties and reduced consumer spending. The Dow rose slightly by 20.10 points, while the S&P and Nasdaq saw more significant gains.

(With inputs from agencies.)