Market Wrap | U.S. Stock Market Sees Mixed Performance Amid Rate Cut Calls

On July 18, 2025, the U.S. stock market saw mixed performance with the S&P 500 index falling 0.01%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 0.32%, and the Nasdaq Composite rising 0.05%. Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller expressed concerns over private sector employment, advocating for a rate cut in July, while President Trump reiterated calls for rate reductions, underscoring the pressure on monetary policy. Additionally, U.S. bank deposits saw a decline from last week, indicating potential liquidity issues.

In today's market, several key sectors underperformed the S&P 500, including the technology, healthcare, consumer staples, energy, communication services, and industrial sectors. Conversely, the utilities, consumer discretionary, materials, real estate, and financial sectors bucked the trend and saw gains.

Tesla shares rose 3.21% today, driven by the U.S. government's imposition of tariffs on Chinese graphite. This move is expected to benefit Tesla's battery production cost structure, as it reduces the company's reliance on imported materials. The tariffs are part of a broader effort by the U.S. to support domestic industries and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Tesla's stock has been volatile in recent months, but today's gains reflect investor optimism about the company's long-term prospects.

Telomir shares surged by 88.43% today, driven by a major announcement that could revolutionize cancer treatment research. Incannex Healthcare Limited also saw a significant rise, with its stock up by 64.82%. The company's stock holds buy signals from both short and long-term Moving Averages, indicating a positive forecast. Meanwhile, LQR House stock plummeted by 63.77% after being named as a defendant in a lawsuit seeking to freeze its assets. Northern Dynasty shares dropped by 36.20%, largely due to stalled negotiations with the Environmental Protection Agency over the contentious Pebble mining project.

Block XYZ is set to join the S&P 500 index, replacing Hess, marking a significant shift in market dynamics. Federal Reserve Governor Waller has advocated for a rate cut in July, citing concerns over private sector employment, while President Trump has continued to pressure Fed Chair Powell to decrease rates, arguing it could lead to substantial savings. Meanwhile, global investment in U.S. stocks has declined sharply amid trade war uncertainties, with foreign fund inflows slowing significantly compared to previous years. These developments reflect ongoing economic challenges and potential impacts on the U.S. stock market.