Dow Jones Hits Record Amid Mixed Wall Street Moves and Global Tensions

The blue-chip Dow Jones closed higher, led by UnitedHealth's surge after Berkshire Hathaway increased its stake. Meanwhile, U.S.-Russia tensions and mixed economic data influenced other Wall Street indexes. Retail sales rose, but consumer confidence fell. Investors anticipate potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts amidst tariff and inflation concerns.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended on a high note, driven by a notable rise in UnitedHealth Group's shares following Berkshire Hathaway's investment. This uplift occurred amid a day of mixed performances on Wall Street, with other indices, including the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, showing declines.

As President Trump met Russian President Putin, discussions focused on resolving the Ukraine conflict and oil prices, bringing global politics to investors' attention. Concurrently, U.S. economic data presented a mixed picture, as upbeat retail sales were offset by disappointing consumer confidence and factory outputs.

Market analysts are closely watching the Federal Reserve's next moves, with a possible interest rate cut anticipated in reaction to tariff-induced pressures and evolving economic conditions. Investors, however, remain cautious amid prevailing market complacency and valuation concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)