The major US stock indexes finished trading in different directions

Major US stock indices showed mixed dynamics, as optimism about solid corporate revenues was partially offset by a sharp strengthening of the US dollar after statements by US President Trump.

The focus was also on the United States. As it became known today, the number of Americans applying for new unemployment benefits rose last week, partially replacing the sharp decline in the previous week and continuing the trend of a gradual increase in applications. Primary claims for unemployment benefits increased by 17,000 to 233,000, seasonally adjusted for the week to January 20. Economists were expecting 240,000 applications.

At the same time, sales of new single-family homes in the US fell more than expected in December, recording the largest decline in almost 1.5 years, probably as a result of the disappearance of the effect of replacing houses damaged by floods in the southern states, destroyed by hurricanes . The Ministry of Commerce reported that sales of new homes fell 9.3% to 725,000 units, taking into account seasonal fluctuations last month. The reduction percentage was the highest since August 2016. The November sales were revised to 689,000 units, which is still the strongest indicator since July 2007, from the previously reported 733,000 units. Economists predicted that sales of new homes would fall by 7.9% to 679,000 units last month.

Most components of the DOW index finished the session in positive territory (17 out of 30). The leader of growth was the shares of The Boeing Company (BA, + 2.48%). Outsider were the shares of Apple Inc. (AAPL, -1.88%).

Most sectors of the S & P recorded a rise. The utilities sector grew most (+ 1.1%). The largest decline was registered in the consumer goods sector (-0.9%).

At closing:

DJIA + 0.54% 26,392.79 +140.67

Nasdaq -0.05% 7,411.16 -3.90

S & P + 0.06% 2,839.25 +1.71