Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Economic Journal - Tuesday, 7/23/2013

(As of 7:26 am PST)
 
Earnings are driving the market this morning with some sectors being hit more than others.   Several big names have reported so far this morning.  DuPont, Texas Instruments, and Lockheed Martin reported strong earnings which beat expectations.  UPS Q2 profits fell, as did Valero Energy’s with both stocks getting hit.  Also, Freeport McMoRan and Radioshack reported disappointing earnings results that missed estimates.  Investors are keying in on two big names to report after the bell today, Apple and AT&T.  Analysts are projecting another drop in earnings for Apple, citing continued pressure on the iPhone 5. Investors are being cautious on Apple, with shares down 1% ahead of the announcement.  Overseas, markets saw some positive action today.  Asian markets closed in the green led by a jump in Chinese stocks after government leaders committed to supporting economic growth through restructuring measures.  Also, the Nikkei was higher after Japan upgraded its view of the economy for the 3rd consecutive month.  The pro-growth China news spilled into Europe with positive momentum taking hold for markets.  Gold prices dropped this morning after recording the largest 1 day gain in over a year yesterday.  Interest rates rose ahead of a treasury auction and the US dollar inched higher.  It’s an earnings driven day with Apple’s report after the bell an important event that may set the tone for tomorrow’s trade. 

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