Major Indexes Rally as Markets Extend Monday’s Gains
The U.S. stock market continued its upward momentum on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, with the S&P 500 turning positive for the year after erasing all of its losses from earlier in 2025. The broad-based index rose 0.8% today, building on Monday’s impressive 3.3% surge following the breakthrough trade agreement between the U.S. and China.
The S&P 500 (^GSPC) has now completely recovered from the sharp decline that followed President Trump’s tariff policy announcement on April 2, dubbed “Liberation Day.” As of mid-morning trading, the index was up 0.1% since the start of 2025, marking a remarkable turnaround from its April 9 lows.
Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) climbed 1.8% today, aided by strong performances from technology giants. Nvidia shares jumped more than 6%, while Meta Platforms and Netflix both rose over 2%. Amazon also performed well, gaining approximately 2% during the session.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average lagged behind the other major indexes, dropping 0.2% as healthcare giant UnitedHealth Group (UNH) plunged 16% following unexpected leadership changes and guidance withdrawal.
Trade Tensions Ease as U.S.-China Reach Temporary Agreement
Markets have been buoyed by the recent agreement between the United States and China to temporarily reduce tariffs. The deal, announced on Monday, will cut “reciprocal” tariffs between both countries from 125% to 10% for a 90-day period while the two economic superpowers work toward a broader trade agreement.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the weekend talks in Switzerland as “very productive,” noting that both countries had agreed to slash tariffs by 115% for the 90-day period. This brings U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods down to 30% (with 20% duties on fentanyl-related imports remaining in place), while Chinese tariffs on U.S. imports drop to 10%.
The market’s positive reaction reflects investor relief after weeks of escalating trade tensions that began when President Trump unveiled 145% tariffs on imported goods from China last month, which prompted Beijing to retaliate with 125% duties targeting U.S. goods.
Inflation Data Shows Easing Pressure
The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report today, showing inflation pressures eased in April, the month when many of President Trump’s tariffs were unveiled. The data revealed the slowest annual rate of inflation since 2021, suggesting the tariffs have not yet had an immediate impact on consumer prices.
This inflation report is being closely watched by bond traders for clues about the Federal Reserve’s path for interest rates. Markets are currently pricing in the first 0.25% rate cut in September, compared with previous expectations for a June reduction.
Major Stock Movers and Corporate News
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) was the day’s biggest loser among blue-chip stocks, plummeting 16% after suspending its 2025 guidance and announcing the immediate departure of CEO Andrew Witty for personal reasons. The company cited rising medical costs as a key factor in its decision to withdraw guidance.
Coinbase Global (COIN) surged over 22% following the announcement that the cryptocurrency trading platform will join the S&P 500, effective before trading on May 19. Coinbase will replace Discover Financial Services in the index.
Palantir Technologies (PLTR) jumped more than 8% as tech stocks continued their strong performance amid the improving trade outlook.
Nvidia Corporation (NVDA) gained nearly 6%, helping to lead the tech sector higher as investors renewed their enthusiasm for AI-related stocks.
Tesla (TSLA) shares rose 5.6%, benefiting from the improved trade relations with China, a crucial market for the electric vehicle manufacturer.
Upcoming Market Events
Investors should keep an eye on several key economic releases in the coming days. The Consumer Price Index data released today will be followed by Advance Retail Sales figures on Thursday, May 15.
Additionally, the Weekly Economic Index will be released on Thursday, offering a broader view of economic activity. The New York Fed Staff Nowcast, which provides an estimate of GDP growth, is scheduled for release on Friday, May 16.
As trade negotiations continue between the U.S. and China during the 90-day tariff reduction period, market participants will closely monitor any developments that could impact the long-term trade relationship between the world’s two largest economies.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.