Market Indices Performance (September 1–7, 2025)
The US stock market experienced a volatile yet generally upward trend over the past week, with notable fluctuations driven by economic data releases, Fed policy speculation, and global cues. Below is a detailed breakdown based on the latest data as of September 6, 2025, 07:51 AM JST:
- S&P 500 Index: Closed at 6,481.50, down -20.58 (-0.32%) on September 6. Over the past 5 days, it ranged from a high of 6,532.65 to a low of 6,443.98, reflecting a weekly change of +21.24 (+0.33%). The 52-week range is 4,835.04–6,532.65, with a year-to-date (YTD) gain of 10.20%. The index saw a strong rally mid-week but pulled back slightly on Friday amid profit-taking and inflation concerns.
- Dow Jones Industrial Average: Closed at 45,400.86, down -220.43 (-0.48%) on September 6. The 5-day range was 45,211.78–45,770.20, with a weekly change of -144.02 (-0.32%). The 52-week range is 36,611.78–45,770.20, with a YTD gain of 6.71%. The index showed resilience early in the week but declined as financials weakened.
- Nasdaq Composite: Closed at 21,700.39, down -7.30 (-0.034%) on September 6. The 5-day range was 21,534.73–21,878.81, with a weekly change of +44.84 (+1.14%). The 52-week range is 14,784.03–21,878.81, with a YTD gain of 12.37%. Tech stocks drove gains mid-week, though the close was nearly flat.
- Russell 2000 Index: Closed at 2,391.05, up +11.43 (+0.48%) on September 6. The 5-day range was 2,366.78–2,407.37, with a weekly change of +24.63 (+1.04%). The 52-week range is 1,732.99–2,466.48, with a YTD gain of 7.21%. Small-caps showed steady growth, outperforming larger indices late in the week.
- CBOE Volatility Index (VIX): Closed at 15.18, down -0.18 (-1.17%) on September 6. The 5-day range was 14.74–16.92, with a weekly decline of -0.18. The 52-week range is 12.70–60.13, with a YTD drop of -12.51%. Volatility spiked mid-week but eased by Friday.
Weekly Trends: The market started the week with gains following Labor Day, peaking mid-week with optimism around a potential Fed rate cut. However, Friday’s decline reflected concerns over inflation data and geopolitical tensions, though small-caps and tech sectors showed resilience.
Key Influences Over the Past Week
- Economic Factors:
- Inflation Data: Revised CPI and PCE data indicated persistent inflation, tempering rate cut expectations and pressuring growth stocks mid-week.
- Jobless Claims: Stable claims at 245,000 eased recession fears early in the week but later fueled caution as labor market softening persisted.
- Commodity Prices: Rising oil and metal prices mid-week added inflation pressure, though they stabilized by Friday, supporting a mixed market response.
- Political Factors:
- Trump’s Tariff Policy: The ongoing 90-day tariff pause on China provided some relief, but hints of future adjustments kept trade-sensitive sectors volatile.
- Fed Policy Uncertainty: Anticipation of Jerome Powell’s speech on September 5 heightened, with mixed signals on a September rate cut influencing daily swings.
- Diplomatic Factors:
- Ukraine Peace Talks: Stalled negotiations sustained geopolitical risks, impacting energy and defense stocks early in the week.
- Middle East Tensions: Minor escalations mid-week raised oil price concerns, though stability returned by Friday.
- Social Factors:
- Labor Day Impact: Post-holiday spending data showed a slowdown initially, affecting retail stocks, but a slight recovery lifted sentiment later.
- Consumer Confidence: A dip due to inflation worries persisted, influencing discretionary spending trends throughout the week.
- Corporate Factors:
- Tech Performance: Nvidia and other tech stocks rallied mid-week post-earnings but saw profit-taking by Friday.
- Sector Shifts: Financials and industrials weakened late in the week, while small-caps gained traction with rate cut hopes.
- Global Market Influence:
- Americas: The S&P/TSX and IBOVESPA mirrored U.S. trends, with gains early and pullbacks later.
- Asia and Europe: Markets like Nikkei 225 and FTSE 100 followed a similar pattern, with mid-week highs and Friday declines.
52-Week and YTD Context
- The S&P 500’s 19.84% 52-week gain and 10.20% YTD rise highlight a strong recovery from 4,835.04, though Friday’s drop suggests caution.
- The Dow Jones’ 12.53% 52-week and 6.71% YTD gains reflect steady growth, with recent highs near 45,770.20.
- Nasdaq’s 30.01% 52-week and 12.37% YTD gains underscore tech dominance, despite a flat close.
- Russell 2000’s 14.33% 52-week and 7.21% YTD gains indicate small-cap strength, nearing 2,466.48.
- VIX’s -32.17% 52-week and -12.51% YTD decline signal reduced overall volatility from a high of 60.13.
Outlook for the Near Term
As of September 7, 2025, 07:51 AM JST, the market is closed for the weekend, with the next trading session on September 8. Key points to watch include:
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Economic Data: The upcoming jobs report and ISM manufacturing data will be critical. A soft report could reinforce rate cut expectations, supporting equities, while strong data might delay cuts and pressure growth stocks.
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Fed Commentary: Powell’s speech on September 5 may provide clarity on rate policy, potentially stabilizing or shifting market direction.
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Global Factors: Chuseok holiday in Korea (mid-September) could reduce liquidity, while geopolitical developments in Ukraine and the Middle East remain risks.
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Market Sentiment: The week’s volatility suggests a consolidation phase. Tech and small-caps may lead if rate cut hopes persist, but inflation concerns could cap gains. Defensive sectors like utilities (YTD +9.75%) might attract attention.
Important Notice: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Stock market investing carries significant risks. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Conduct your own research and consult a qualified advisor.