Stock Market Today: Shutdown Fears Weigh on Midday Trading, Tech Shines

Market Overview - U.S. stock markets are experiencing a cautious trading session due to the potential government shutdown and anticipation of key economic data later in the week [1][2] - Major indexes are mostly in the red, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down approximately 0.4%, S&P 500 down about 0.2%, and Nasdaq Composite down roughly 0.3% [2] - Despite the current downturn, the S&P 500 is on track for a fifth consecutive month of gains [3] Economic Indicators - The U.S. dollar index has decreased to 97.85, while the 10-year Treasury yield remains around 4.14% [3] - Gold futures have risen 0.3% to $3,865, following a record high of nearly $3,900 earlier in the day [3] Upcoming Economic Events - Key economic releases to watch include the ADP Employment Report, ISM Manufacturing Index, and Construction Spending data on October 1st, followed by Factory Orders and Durable Goods Orders on October 2nd [4] - The U.S. Employment Report and ISM Non-Manufacturing Composite are scheduled for October 3rd, which are expected to have a significant impact on market sentiment [4] Corporate Developments - Apple (AAPL): Shares are mixed after a favorable ruling in an antitrust case, with analysts citing mixed demand signals for the upcoming iPhone 17. However, early sales and new AI features may drive holiday gains [6] - Nvidia (NVDA): Shares rose 2.1% as analysts express bullish sentiment, with price targets raised to $250 from $230 by KeyBanc and to $240 from $200 by Barclays, driven by expectations of over $2 trillion in AI infrastructure spending [6] - Tesla (TSLA): Stock is boosted by expectations of strong Q3 delivery numbers, prompting Canaccord Genuity to raise its price target to $490 from $333 [7] - Pfizer (PFE): Shares increased nearly 3% following reports of a deal to lower drug prices and a planned $70 billion investment in R&D and domestic manufacturing [11] - United Airlines (UAL): In the news for being certified to equip its aircraft with Starlink internet, enhancing passenger connectivity [11] - Electronic Arts (EA): Shares gained 4.5% after announcing a $55 billion leveraged buyout, with shareholders set to receive $210 per share [11] - Wolfspeed Inc. (WOLF): Shares jumped 36.5% after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy [11] - UiPath Inc. (PATH): Stock rose 14.8% following partnerships with Nvidia and OpenAI [11]