Stock Market Today, Jan. 23: Intel's Weak Outlook Weighs on Dow While Nasdaq Edges Higher

Market Performance - The S&P 500 increased by 0.03% to 6,915.16, while the Nasdaq Composite rose by 0.28% to 23,501.24, driven by technology stocks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 0.58% to 49,098.70, primarily due to Intel's decline [1][2]. Company-Specific Developments - Intel's post-earnings drop significantly impacted the Dow and overall tech sentiment, while gains in Nvidia, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and a more than 5% increase in Fortinet supported the Nasdaq's rise [2][3]. - Intel's fourth-quarter earnings report presented a negative outlook, citing supply constraints as a major concern for the upcoming months [3][4]. - The company reported that finished goods inventory has decreased to 40% of its peak level, leading to a hand-to-mouth supply management approach and anticipated supply shortages in Q1 [4]. Investor Sentiment - Despite Intel's disappointing performance, investors shifted focus towards artificial intelligence, boosting major tech stocks. The strong performance of Nvidia, Microsoft, Meta, and Fortinet reflects a continued preference for high-quality growth and cybersecurity investments [5]. - Geopolitical uncertainties have driven investors towards safe-haven assets like gold and energy, as concerns about inflation and global instability persist [6].