Stock market today: Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq rise to kick off key week with Big Tech earnings, Fed decision

Market Overview - US stocks experienced gains on Monday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average increasing by 0.6%, the S&P 500 rising by 0.5%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 0.4% after consecutive weekly losses for all three indexes [1] Gold and Precious Metals - Gold prices surged, surpassing $5,000 an ounce for the first time on Sunday and continuing to rise on Monday, driven by a weak dollar [3] - Silver also saw significant gains, contributing to what analysts describe as a "breathtaking" rally in precious metals [3] Earnings Reports - A critical week for earnings is anticipated, with major reports expected from Microsoft, Meta, and Tesla on Wednesday, followed by Apple on Thursday [4] - Investors are particularly focused on AI spending plans, especially after Intel's recent downbeat outlook highlighted challenges in the AI sector [4] Federal Reserve Policy - The Federal Reserve's policy decision is expected at the end of its two-day meeting on Wednesday, with a consensus that interest rates will remain steady [5] - There is speculation regarding the timing of the next rate cut, amid divisions among policymakers and tensions with the White House [5] - President Trump has indicated he may announce a replacement for Fed Chair Powell soon, with BlackRock's Rick Rieder being a favored candidate [5]