Stock Market Soars on US-China Trade Deal: What’s Moving Markets Today

Major Indexes Rally as Trade Tensions Ease

The stock market surged dramatically on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, building on yesterday’s momentum after the United States and China agreed to slash reciprocal tariffs. The landmark agreement, announced over the weekend following negotiations in Switzerland, has significantly eased trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

As of market close today, the Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 2.81% to 42,410.10 points, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite soared 4.35% to 18,708.34. The S&P 500 climbed 3.26% to settle at 5,844.19.

“This tariff reduction represents a major thawing in trade relations,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who described the weekend talks as “very productive.” The agreement reduces reciprocal tariffs from 125% to just 10% for a 90-day period while the countries work toward a broader trade deal.

Tech Stocks and Retailers Lead the Rally

Technology companies and retailers were among the biggest beneficiaries of the trade deal. Amazon (AMZN) surged 8.04%, while Apple (AAPL) gained 6.22%. Other notable gainers included Nike (NKE), which climbed 7.45%, and Merck & Co (MRK), which added 5.94%.

In the tech sector, semiconductor stocks continued their strong performance from yesterday. Microchip Technology (MCHP) jumped 10.22%, while Lam Research (LRCX) gained 9.06%. The VanEck Semiconductor ETF has been on a tear since the tariff announcement.

On the downside, utility companies and defensive stocks lagged the broader market. Verizon (VZ) fell 1.44%, while Coca-Cola (KO) dropped 1.38%. Newmont Mining (NEM), the world’s largest gold producer, was among the S&P 500’s biggest losers, falling nearly 6% as gold prices retreated from recent highs.

Key Earnings Reports Released Today

Several companies reported quarterly earnings before the market opened today. Sea Limited (SE), the Singapore-based internet company, reported earnings per share of $0.61, representing a 1625% increase compared to the same quarter last year.

Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com (JD) also reported strong results, with earnings per share of $0.99, a 35.62% increase year-over-year. CyberArk Software (CYBR) and On Holding AG (ONON) were among other notable companies reporting today.

Upcoming Market Catalysts

Investors are now turning their attention to key economic data releases later this week. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April is scheduled for release tomorrow, which will provide crucial insights into inflation trends. Thursday will bring retail sales figures and the Producer Price Index (PPI), offering a comprehensive view of consumer spending and wholesale inflation.

Market Outlook

The CBOE Volatility Index, often referred to as the market’s “fear gauge,” declined 3.51% to 18.39, indicating reduced investor anxiety following the trade agreement.

Sector performance was broadly positive, with Technology (+16.56%), Consumer Discretionary (+8.48%), and Information Technology (+8.37%) leading the gains.

Market analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the sustainability of the rally. “While the tariff reduction is certainly positive news, investors should remember it’s a temporary measure,” noted market strategist Jennifer Chen. “The next 90 days will be critical as negotiations continue toward a more permanent solution.”

As global markets digest the implications of the US-China trade developments, investors will be closely monitoring corporate earnings and economic indicators for signs of how reduced trade tensions might boost economic growth and corporate profits in the coming quarters.