Investopedia·2025-10-17 17:20Core Insights - American Express shares increased after the company reported strong quarterly results that exceeded analysts' expectations and raised its outlook due to increased customer usage of its high-end credit cards [2][6]. Group 1: Market Performance - Major U.S. equity indexes rose at midday on Friday, with regional bank stocks recovering from previous losses following a series of corporate earnings reports [1][6]. - Kenvue was the top performer in the S&P 500 as investors capitalized on a dip in its stock price after a lawsuit in the U.K. claimed its baby powder caused cancer [2]. - Truist Financial also reported better-than-expected results, driven by higher wealth management fees and interest income, leading to a rise in its share price [3]. Group 2: Sector Movements - Shares of Newmont and other gold miners declined as the price of gold, which had been reaching record highs, experienced a pullback [3]. - U.S.-listed shares of Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly fell after comments from President Trump regarding potential price reductions for popular weight-loss drugs [3][6]. Group 3: Economic Indicators - The yield on the 10-year Treasury note and oil futures saw slight increases, while the U.S. dollar strengthened against the euro and pound but weakened against the yen [4].