Stocks Gain for Second Day Ahead of Fed's Interest-Rate Decision

Core Viewpoint - Stocks have experienced gains for two consecutive days ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest-rate decision, indicating positive market sentiment despite fluctuations in oil prices [1]. Group 1: Market Performance - The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 47 points, or 0.1% [2]. - The S&P 500 rose by 0.3% and the Nasdaq Composite increased by 0.5%, marking a synchronized rise in major indexes for the first time since February 24 and 25 [2]. - Initially, futures for the S&P 500 and Dow were lower but reversed course as oil prices declined from overnight highs [3]. Group 2: Oil Prices Impact - At one point, the Dow was up by 1%, but later retreated as West Texas Intermediate crude oil futures rose by 2.9% to $96.21 per barrel [3].