Published on 05/03/2026 03:21 AM
Dow Jones Today | US stock market Highlights: US markets rebounded on Wednesday, brushing aside some of the anxiety around the escalating Middle East conflict. Gains extended from the previous session as oil prices cooled off and concerns of a US economic growth scare receded.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 238.14 points, or 0.49%, to close at 48,739.41, snapping a three-day losing streak. The S&P 500 gained 0.78% to end at 6,869.50, while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.29% to settle at 22,807.48.
The conflict, which has whipsawed global markets, entered its fifth day with fresh Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Technology stocks led the recovery, particularly chipmakers. Micron Technology and Advanced Micro Devices jumped over 5% each, while Broadcom and Nvidia climbed more than 1% apiece.
Investor sentiment was also supported by stronger-than-expected economic data. ADP reported that private sector employers added more jobs than anticipated in February. In addition, the US non-manufacturing sector posted better-than-expected growth last month, alongside easing inflation pressures.
The positive data coincided with oil prices losing momentum. At 3:05 IST, Brent crude was trading at $82.40 per barrel, up $1.00 or 1.23%, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude stood at $75.90, higher by $1.34 or 1.80%. Murban crude was at $82.21, up $2.23 or 2.79%. In contrast, natural gas declined to $2.923, down $0.131 or 4.29%.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US would make “a series of announcements” to support the flow of oil through the Persian Gulf. Oil’s recent rally cooled further after President Donald Trump said the US would provide risk insurance for maritime trade through the Gulf to help ensure tanker movement via the Strait of Hormuz.