The Pulse: Global Economic and Market News for Friday, April 25, 2025

Global Economic and Market News – April 25, 2025

Markets wrapped up the week on Friday, April 25, 2025, with a resilient performance despite the ongoing trade uncertainty. Investors weighed the fading momentum of a three-day rally, but a strong performance from technology stocks and the interplay between U.S.-China tariff negotiations, corporate earnings, and shifting Federal Reserve signals shaped the day’s trading and economic outlook.

Wall Street’s Rally Stalls Amid Trade Uncertainty

After three days of robust gains, Wall Street’s rally lost steam on Friday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 76 points (0.2%) to 40,017 in early afternoon trading, while the S&P 500 managed a modest gain of 0.4% and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.9%, buoyed by large-cap technology stocks145. The week’s earlier optimism was driven by President Trump’s softer tone on trade and hopes for a de-escalation in the tariff war. Still, Friday saw renewed caution as CEOs and analysts flagged the ongoing risks from global trade policies15.

President Trump hinted at a possible trade deal with China, and reports emerged that China may suspend its 125% retaliatory tariff on some U.S. products, including semiconductors12. However, the Chinese government denied that active negotiations are underway and reiterated that the U.S. must first remove its tariffs17. Analysts noted that significant levies would remain even if tariffs are reduced, continuing to weigh on economic growth1.

Tech Stocks Extend Gains and Drive Market Leadership

Technology shares led the market higher, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq notching their fourth consecutive day of gains24. Tesla surged nearly 10% on optimism about its entry into the Indian market and the U.S. government’s move to relax self-driving car regulations24. Nvidia rose almost 4% as AI chip demand remained strong, and Alphabet (Google’s parent) climbed after a robust earnings report and a new dividend announcement2456.

The “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks advanced, helping the Nasdaq rise over 1.2% for the session and more than 6% for the week 24. The S&P 500 closed up 0.74% at 5,525.21, and the Nasdaq Composite ended at 17,282.94, up 1.26%4. The Dow lagged but still managed a weekly increase of 2.5%4.

Corporate Earnings and Economic Data

Earnings season continued to drive stock-specific moves. Alphabet’s shares rose on strong results and a $70 billion stock buyback, while Intel fell after issuing a cautious outlook despite beating earnings forecasts456. Skechers pulled its annual forecast citing “macroeconomic uncertainty stemming from global trade policies” and saw its stock fall 4.3%12. Several airlines and telecoms also reported weaker guidance due to the ongoing trade conflict3.

In economic data, the 10-year Treasury yield eased to 4.28% from 4.32% on Thursday, and the U.S. dollar rebounded against major currencies1. Mortgage rates increased, with the average 30-year fixed rate rising to 6.73% in April. The Federal Reserve signaled it is watching for inflation risks from tariffs but indicated a willingness to cut rates if growth slows2.

Outlook: Choppy Markets, Trade Talks, and Fed Policy in Focus

Analysts expect continued market volatility as trade negotiations remain uncertain and earnings season progresses. However, the potential for lower tariffs and potential Fed rate cuts suggests that the risk-reward for stocks is improving. Despite substantial trade barriers, there is hope for improved corporate profit growth and economic activity in the future. Next week, investors will focus on earnings from Microsoft, Meta, Apple, and Amazon and new financial data on durable goods and home sales.

Disclosure

This article contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations as of April 25, 2025. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth herein. The economic and market analyses presented are based on various assumptions and may not prove accurate. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy, or investment product. The article references third-party information from various news sources; while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, reliability cannot be guaranteed.

Market data mentioned is as of April 25, 2025, and is subject to change. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult with qualified financial professionals before making investment decisions.

Sources

• CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/stock-market-today-djia-nasdaq-dow-jones-04-25-2025/
• Yahoo Finance: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/live/stock-market-today-dow-falls-sp-500-nasdaq-gain-to-extend-3-day-surge-133034309.html
• Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/business/us-stock-futures-slip-investors-assess-trade-developments-earnings-reports-2025-04-24/
• CNBC: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/24/stock-market-today-live-updates.html
• Investopedia: https://www.investopedia.com/dow-jones-today-04252025-11721889
• Bloomberg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FntRKJgpVVc
• Yahoo Finance: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stock-market-news-apr-25-132000424.html

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