Market Overview - The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed a slight increase in overall fear, remaining in the "Fear" zone with a reading of 40.4, down from 40.6 [7] - U.S. stocks closed higher, with the Dow Jones gaining over 100 points, supported by economic data that bolstered expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut [1] Economic Indicators - The core Personal Consumption Expenditures price index decreased from 2.9% to 2.8% year over year in September, slightly below expectations [2] - The CME FedWatch tool indicates an 87% probability of a 25-basis-point interest rate cut next week [2] - The University of Michigan's preliminary December consumer survey showed an improvement in overall sentiment, rising from 51 to 53.3, with further softening of inflation expectations [2] Company News - Netflix Inc. experienced a 2.9% drop after announcing a definitive agreement to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. for $27.75 per share, valuing the company at approximately $72 billion [3] - Ulta Beauty Inc. shares surged 12.7% after exceeding analysts' estimates and raising its outlook [4] - ServiceTitan Inc. shares rose 10.5% following better-than-expected third-quarter financial results [4] Sector Performance - Most sectors on the S&P 500 closed negatively, with utilities, health care, and energy stocks experiencing the largest losses [5] - Communication services and information technology stocks closed higher during the session [5] - The Dow Jones closed at 47,954.99, up around 104 points, while the S&P 500 gained 0.19% to 6,870.40, and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.31% to 23,578.13 [5] Upcoming Earnings - Investors are anticipating earnings results from Toll Brothers Inc., Phreesia Inc., and Compass Minerals International, Inc. [6]