Track Markets Live NowThe stock market continues its volatile journey today, Wednesday, April 30, 2025, as investors navigate a complex landscape of economic data releases, high-profile earnings reports, and ongoing trade tensions. After a tumultuous month of trading, major indexes are showing mixed signals as we approach the final trading day of April.
Current Market Performance
As of early Wednesday, futures tied to the S&P 500 slipped 0.51%, while Nasdaq 100 futures lost 0.66%. Meanwhile, Dow Jones Industrial Average futures added 300 points, or 0.75%.
April has been particularly rocky for markets following President Trump’s sweeping “reciprocal” tariff announcement on April 2, which set off a bout of volatile trading. Despite briefly entering bear market territory earlier this month, the S&P 500 has made a remarkable comeback and is now down just 0.9% for the month. The Dow is on pace for a 3.5% loss in April, while the Nasdaq is about 0.9% higher.
Critical Economic Data Releases Today
Today marks a significant day for economic data releases that could substantially impact market direction:
– The first reading of Q1 GDP is expected to show an annualized growth rate of just 0.4%, according to Dow Jones estimates, representing a significant slowdown from Q4 2024’s 2.4% growth.
– The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index for March will be released at 10:00 AM ET. Economists expect headline PCE inflation to show no monthly gain and a year-over-year rate of 2.2%, down from February’s 2.5%.
High-Stakes Earnings Reports
Today features several major earnings releases that could significantly move markets:
– Microsoft (MSFT) reports its fiscal Q3 results after market close, with analysts expecting earnings per share of $3.21 on revenues of $68.43 billion. Investors will be closely watching for solid cloud growth driven by strong bookings and demand for AI services.
– Meta Platforms (META) also reports Q1 earnings today, with consensus estimates predicting EPS of $5.22 on revenue of $41.35 billion. Analysts will be monitoring for any signs of ad pricing pressures due to Chinese companies like Temu and Shein cutting spending amid rising US-China trade tensions.
– Other notable companies reporting today include Qualcomm (QCOM), Robinhood Markets (HOOD), Stellantis (STLA), and Caterpillar (CAT).
Trade Tensions and Market Outlook
Markets received a boost on Tuesday after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC that the White House was close to announcing a trade deal, though he didn’t name the country. Later, President Trump indicated that tariff negotiations with India are “coming along great” and that an agreement could be reached soon.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that “individual investors have held tight, while institutional investors have panicked” during the recent market turmoil, with retail investors actively buying during this month’s sell-off.
What to Watch
As we move forward, investors should monitor:
1. The impact of today’s GDP and PCE data on Federal Reserve rate cut expectations
2. Guidance from tech giants Microsoft and Meta regarding AI investments and advertising trends
3. Any further developments in trade negotiations, particularly with India and China
4. Whether the S&P 500 can finish April in positive territory after its recent recovery
With economic growth expected to be stagnant but inflation showing signs of cooling, market participants will be watching closely to see if the Federal Reserve might justify a rate cut in the face of weaker economic conditions.