Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-09-18 13:39Core Viewpoint - The U.S. stock market showed mixed performance following the Federal Reserve's interest rate cut, with a notable surge in technology stocks, particularly Intel, which received a $5 billion investment commitment from Nvidia [1][3]. Market Performance - The Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased by 0.52 points to 46,017.80 points, while the Nasdaq Composite rose by 178.01 points, a 0.80% increase, reaching 22,439.336 points. The S&P 500 index increased by 27.23 points, or 0.41%, to 6,627.58 points [3]. - Despite volatility, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices are expected to record weekly gains of 0.2% and 0.5%, respectively, marking the sixth week of gains in seven weeks for the S&P 500 and the third consecutive week of gains for the Nasdaq [4]. Federal Reserve Actions - The Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage points, with expectations of two more rate cuts this year, but only one in 2026. This decision was characterized as "risk management" by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, indicating a cautious approach rather than a shift to a long-term easing policy [3][4]. Company-Specific Developments - Intel's stock surged following Nvidia's announcement of a $5 billion investment aimed at joint development of data center and PC products, positively impacting other semiconductor stocks [3][5]. - Other notable company developments include: - Novo Nordisk's oral weight loss drug showing positive results in phase three clinical trials [5]. - Palantir securing a $750 million contract to expand in the UK market [5]. - Tesla receiving an order for 10,000 Optimus 3+ humanoid robots [5]. - Arvinas and Pfizer transferring commercialization rights for vepdegestrant [6]. - TSMC's stock rising as Apple secures over half of its 2nm capacity for next year [6].