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Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq: Market Outlook
Market Summary
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and Nasdaq Composite, two of the most widely followed stock market indices, closed mixed on Thursday, with the DJIA posting a modest gain while the Nasdaq retreated.
DJIA Performance
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) rose by 123.24 points, or 0.36%, to close at 34,264.93. This marks the index's second consecutive day of gains, following a sharp decline earlier in the week.
Nasdaq Performance
The Nasdaq Composite Index declined by 38.82 points, or 0.28%, to close at 13,814.19. This is the index's third consecutive day of declines, as it continues to struggle amid ongoing concerns about the tech sector.
Market Drivers
Several factors contributed to the mixed market performance on Thursday. These include:
Economic Data
* **U.S. GDP Growth:** The Commerce Department reported that the U.S. economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2022. This was in line with expectations, but still well below the 3.2% growth rate seen in the third quarter.
Earnings Season
* **Earnings Season:** The fourth-quarter earnings season is underway, and several companies have reported their results so far. Some companies have beaten expectations, while others have missed, leading to stock price volatility.
Interest Rates
* **Interest Rates:** The Federal Reserve is expected to continue raising interest rates in 2023 in an effort to combat inflation. This could weigh on stock prices, as higher interest rates make borrowing more expensive for businesses and consumers.
Outlook
Analysts remain cautious about the market outlook for the near term. The ongoing war in Ukraine, rising inflation, and the potential for a recession continue to weigh on investor sentiment. However, some analysts believe that the market may experience a rebound in the second half of the year as economic conditions improve.
For More Information
* [Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA)](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/djia.asp)
* [Nasdaq Composite Index](https://www.nasdaq.com/market-activity/indexes/nasdaq-composite)
* [Fourth-Quarter GDP Growth](https://www.bea.gov/news/2023/gross-domestic-product-fourth-quarter-and-year-2022-advance-estimate)