US stocks closed higher

Key Points

• 1

  All four major indexes ended higher.

• 2

  Ten of eleven sectors rose today.

• 3

  Health care and technology led the gains.

• 4

  Communication services was the only lower sector.

• 5

  Market mood stayed cautious despite gains.

Sector Performance

• Health CareHospitals, pharma, and medical devicesHealth care was the strongest sector.
  +1.17%
• TechnologyGrowth companies like semiconductors & softwareTechnology rose strongly today.
  +1.00%
• UtilitiesElectric, water, and gas utility companiesUtilities rose strongly today.
  +0.78%
• IndustrialsAirlines, machinery, and defense companiesIndustrials posted a solid gain.
  +0.73%
• EnergyOil and gas companiesEnergy added to the broad rise.
  +0.61%
• MaterialsSteel, chemicals, and raw materialsMaterials joined the market rise.
  +0.54%
• FinancialsBanks, insurance, and brokerage firmsFinancials rose at a moderate pace.
  +0.41%
• Consumer DiscretionaryCars, retail — things people want but don't needConsumer discretionary gained modestly.
  +0.40%
• Consumer StaplesFood, household goods — everyday essentialsConsumer staples edged higher.
  +0.17%
• Real EstateReal estate investment trusts (REITs)Real estate gained slightly.
  +0.13%
• Communication ServicesTelecom, media, and internet companiesCommunication services was the lone decliner.
  -0.55%

Most sectors ended higher today.