U.S. Stocks Reflect Growing Economy Despite Few Setbacks

By Sophia Reynolds Dec 11, 2024

U.S. stocks mostly rise in response to reports of successful job creation in November, with a few notable performances in particular.

The majority of U.S. stocks saw an increase due to favourable job creation figures reported by the Labor Department for November. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq enjoyed gains, even as the Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a slight dip.

In particular, Lululemon Athletica (LULU) was the star player in the S&P 500. The athletic attire company exceeded expectations with its performance and subsequently raised its outlook. This optimistic adjustment was largely due to positive anticipation regarding the key holiday shopping season.

The shares of Docusign (DOCU) took flight after the electronic document signing software provider also reported better-than-projected results. The company has accordingly adjusted its outlook positively due to significant growth in billings and subscriptions.

Shares for Peloton Interactive (PTON) surged as UBS upgraded the stock and increased the price target. The judgement was that the fitness equipment and services company stood to gain from cost-cutting measures and a CEO change.

However, UnitedHealth Group's (UNH) shares dropped for a second consecutive day. This downturn was attributed to suggestions that the recent murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson could be connected to the insurance company's contentious coverage policies.

Firearm manufacturer Smith & Wesson's (SWBI) stocks crashed after the company issued a warning that inflation was impacting firearm sales, resulting in a reduction of its outlook.

Meanwhile, stocks for oil companies such as Chevron (CVX) and Halliburton (HAL) slid due to anticipation of an oil surplus.

Gold prices saw an increase while the yield on the 10-year Treasury note remained steady. Against the euro and pound, the U.S. dollar gained, although it lost against the yen. In the digital finance world, Bitcoin rose by 2% and was priced at around $99,000.

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