Dow Ends Losing Streak as Powell Signals Persistent High Rates

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's remarks on inflation and interest rates drive mixed responses in U.S. stock markets, with the Dow gaining slightly while other indices falter.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up 0.2%, ending a six-day losing streak, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite saw declines.
Jerome Powell emphasized a 'higher-for-longer' interest rate stance, indicating that the Fed needs more time to be confident about controlling inflation.
Rising bond yields reflect investor reactions to Powell's comments, with the 2-year Treasury note yield briefly hitting 5%, its highest since November.
Corporate earnings are mixed, with UnitedHealth beating profit estimates but other key players like Johnson & Johnson and Northern Trust underperforming.
Geopolitical tensions and high interest rates are causing fluctuations in stock and bond markets, adding to investor uncertainty.