October 18, 2016: Markets opened higher again Tuesday, and, as on Monday, the lack of any firm economic data led traders to look at corporate earnings for guidance. Netflix reported Monday night and shares popped; Goldman Sachs and UnitedHealth reported this morning and added to the positivity. Every sector traded higher this afternoon, with healthcare and technology leading the way. WTI crude oil for November delivery settled at $50.29 a barrel, up 0.7% for the day. December gold added 0.5% on the day to settle at $1,262.90. Equities were headed for a higher close before the bell as the DJIA traded up 0.41% for the day, the S&P 500 traded up 0.62%, and the Nasdaq Composite traded up 0.9%.
The DJIA stock posting the largest daily percentage gain ahead of the close Tuesday was UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE: UNH) which traded up 6.93% at $143.43. The stock’s 52-week range is $107.51 to $144.48. Trading volume was nearly 3 times the daily average of around 2.9 million. The company reported better-expected-results this morning and boosted its profit outlook for the year.
The Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE: GS) traded up 2.11% at $172.56. The stock’s 52-week range is $138.20 to $199.9. Volume was about 60% above the daily average of around 2.5 million shares. The investment bank also posted good results this morning.
E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Co. (NYSE: DD) traded up 1.24% at $69.51. The stock’s 52-week range is $50.71 to $75.72. Volume was about 50% below the daily average of around 2.5 million shares. The company’s president said that he will retire at the end of this year.
Intel Corp. (NASDAQ: INTC) traded up XX1.21% at $37.74. The stock’s 52-week range is $27.68 to $38.36. Volume was about 30% above the daily average of around 21 million shares. The chipmaker reports earnings after the bell Tuesday.
Of the 30 Dow index stocks 21 are on track to close higher Tuesday and 9 are set to close lower.
Take Charge of Your Retirement In Just A Few Minutes (Sponsor)
Retirement planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is finding expert guidance—and SmartAsset’s made it easier than ever for you to connect with a vetted financial advisor.
Here’s how it works:
- Answer a Few Simple Questions. Tell us a bit about your goals and preferences—it only takes a few minutes!
- Get Matched with Vetted Advisors Our smart tool matches you with up to three pre-screened, vetted advisors who serve your area and are held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Click here to begin
- Choose Your Fit Review their profiles, schedule an introductory call (or meet in person), and select the advisor who feel is right for you.
Why wait? Start building the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Click here to get started today!
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
Our expert who first called NVIDIA in 2009 is predicting 2025 will see a historic AI breakthrough.
You can follow him investing $500,000 of his own money on our top AI stocks for free.