US Stocks Mixed Amid Tech Earnings and Trade Deal Hopes

Market Overview

US stocks experienced a mixed session on July 24, 2025. The S&P 500 (^GSPC) achieved its fourth consecutive record close, supported by strong tech earnings from Alphabet (GOOG), which highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) as a significant growth driver. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) rose by approximately 0.2%, marking a fresh record close. In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) fell 0.6%, primarily influenced by a drop in IBM (IBM) shares.

Alphabet's earnings report exceeded Wall Street expectations, with CEO Sundar Pichai emphasizing substantial investments in AI. The positive momentum from AI-related stocks like Nvidia (NVDA) further amplified the tech sector's gains.

Tesla's Disappointing Earnings

Despite the optimism in the tech sector, Tesla (TSLA) saw its stock decline by 8% following disappointing earnings and warnings from CEO Elon Musk about potential "rough quarters" ahead. This drop occurred amid declining sales in Europe and the impact of changes to federal EV tax credits under President Trump.

Trade Deal Developments

On the trade front, investors were buoyed by optimism surrounding a US-EU trade deal. Reports indicated that the EU and the US might settle on a 15% tariff for most imports from Europe, a significant reduction from the previously threatened 30% tariff. This agreement is projected to be finalized by August 1, following statements from President Trump.

Airline Stocks Take Hits

Airline stocks took a beating on Thursday, particularly Southwest Airlines (LUV), which saw shares plummet over 12% due to disappointing earnings driven by a slow start to the summer travel season. Southwest's CFO pointed to broader economic challenges, including tariff uncertainties and weakened consumer sentiment, which forced the company to revise its full-year profit guidance downward.

Similarly, American Airlines (AAL) shares fell 6% as the airline reported a decline in domestic revenue, echoing Southwest's struggles. CEO Robert Isom highlighted how uncertainty in the economy has hampered customer willingness to travel.

Broader Economic Indicators

Economic indicators also played a role in market sentiment, with initial jobless claims released by the Department of Labor showing a decrease to 217,000 for the week ending July 19—indicating a strong labor market.

Outlook and Investor Sentiment

Amid mixed corporate earnings reports and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, investor sentiment remains cautiously optimistic. Analysts are watching closely for further developments in AI investments, as they could significantly impact the markets going forward. Additionally, the implications of changes in federal policies, particularly under the current administration, continue to create volatility in specific sectors.