ADVFN UK Market News

Category: Top Story

  • Wall Street holds steady as TSMC earnings strengthen AI outlook ahead of key US data: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street

    Wall Street holds steady as TSMC earnings strengthen AI outlook ahead of key US data: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street

    US equity futures were little changed on Thursday as investors weighed encouraging corporate earnings against geopolitical uncertainty and prepared for another busy day of economic releases. Record quarterly results from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company also reinforced confidence that investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure remains strong.

    Inflation concerns ease as focus shifts to earnings

    Following Wednesday’s gains, Wall Street futures traded in a narrow range as investors turned their attention back to company results and macroeconomic indicators.

    At 04:00 ET, futures on the S&P 500 were down 0.2%, Nasdaq 100 futures declined 0.4%, while Dow Jones futures were broadly unchanged.

    Recent inflation data has strengthened expectations that the Federal Reserve can leave interest rates unchanged in the coming months, reducing one of the market’s biggest concerns. Investors are now looking to corporate earnings to determine whether current equity valuations remain justified.

    TSMC delivers another strong quarter

    Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE:TSM) reported record second-quarter earnings after demand for advanced AI processors remained exceptionally strong.

    Net profit increased 77% year over year to T$706.6 billion (US$22 billion), comfortably surpassing analysts’ forecasts.

    As the primary chip manufacturer for companies including Nvidia and Apple, TSMC’s results are viewed as a key measure of global investment in artificial intelligence. The figures also followed positive guidance from ASML, adding further evidence that spending on AI infrastructure continues to accelerate.

    Apple approval lifts Chinese technology stocks

    Chinese technology shares advanced after Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) received regulatory approval to launch Apple Intelligence features in China.

    Alibaba (NYSE:BABA) gained almost 5%, while Baidu (NASDAQ:BIDU) rose around 4% as investors welcomed the approval, which clears the way for Apple’s AI services in one of its largest markets.

    The development is expected to benefit both Apple and its domestic technology partners involved in supporting its artificial intelligence ecosystem.

    Markets monitor geopolitical developments

    Geopolitical risks remained firmly on investors’ radar following another round of US military action targeting Iran.

    Although markets have become more resilient to daily developments, concerns remain that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could push energy prices higher and complicate the inflation outlook.

    Investors await fresh market catalysts

    Attention now turns to quarterly results from Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX), GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE), State Street (NYSE:STT) and U.S. Bancorp (NYSE:USB), alongside June retail sales and weekly jobless claims data.

    These releases are expected to provide a clearer picture of the strength of the US economy and help determine whether this year’s rally in equities can continue.

  • European stocks tread cautiously as geopolitical tensions offset softer US inflation: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European stocks tread cautiously as geopolitical tensions offset softer US inflation: DAX, CAC, FTSE100

    European equity markets traded little changed on Thursday as investors balanced easing inflationary pressures in the United States against rising geopolitical risks in the Middle East. While expectations of a patient Federal Reserve provided support, escalating tensions involving Washington and Tehran continued to keep energy prices elevated and limited risk appetite.

    Markets remain steady despite geopolitical uncertainty

    The pan-European STOXX 600 was broadly unchanged in early trading, outperforming weaker sentiment across Asian technology markets.

    Germany’s DAX, France’s CAC 40 and Italy’s FTSE MIB also traded close to flat, while London’s FTSE 100 slipped 0.4%.

    Investor sentiment remained heavily influenced by developments in the Middle East. Oil prices stayed near one-month highs after further US military strikes in Iran, while Tehran warned that the conflict could develop into what it described as an “existential war” with the United States.

    Softer US data supports rate expectations

    Providing some support to markets, the latest US inflation data reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve is unlikely to tighten monetary policy in the near term.

    Producer Price Index (PPI) figures released overnight came in below expectations, adding to recent evidence of moderating consumer inflation and a cooling labour market.

    As a result, financial markets have reduced expectations of further policy tightening, with the implied probability of a Federal Reserve interest rate increase as early as July falling to around 10%.

    Earnings season and AI remain in focus

    Investors are also awaiting quarterly results from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE:TSM), widely viewed as a key indicator of demand across the semiconductor and artificial intelligence industries.

    The update is expected to provide further insight into the durability of global investment in AI infrastructure as the second-quarter earnings season gathers pace.

    Analysts currently expect companies within the STOXX 600 to deliver earnings growth of approximately 14.5% year over year, representing the strongest rate of profit growth in more than three years. However, much of that increase is being driven by a sharp rise in energy sector earnings following higher oil prices linked to geopolitical tensions.

    Excluding oil and gas companies, underlying earnings growth across European businesses is expected to be closer to 5.5%, with investors closely monitoring management commentary on profit margins and artificial intelligence-related investment.

    Movers

    Among individual stocks, Rotork (LSE:ROR) surged 65% after ABB agreed to acquire the engineering company in a US$5.5 billion deal.

    Partners Group (LSE:PEY) fell 7% following the release of its quarterly results.

    Frasers Group (LSE:FRAS) declined 5% after reporting annual results that fell short of profit expectations.

  • FTSE 100 slips as Middle East tensions outweigh stronger UK economic growth

    FTSE 100 slips as Middle East tensions outweigh stronger UK economic growth

    The FTSE 100 traded lower on Thursday as escalating tensions between the United States and Iran overshadowed better-than-expected UK economic data, while investors continued to assess the potential impact of disruption to global energy markets.

    The FTSE 100 fell 0.37% by 07:25 GMT, extending the previous session’s losses. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany’s DAX declined 0.22% and France’s CAC 40 slipped 0.21%. Sterling was little changed against the US dollar at $1.3535.

    UK economy grows faster than expected

    Fresh figures from the Office for National Statistics showed the UK economy expanded more strongly than forecast.

    Gross domestic product increased 0.7% over the three months to May, comfortably ahead of economists’ expectations for 0.5% growth. Annual GDP growth accelerated to 1.3%, marking the fastest pace in 13 months.

    On a monthly basis, the economy grew 0.1% in May after contracting 0.1% in April, with the services sector providing the main support through a 0.3% increase in output.

    Iran tensions continue to dominate market sentiment

    Despite the encouraging economic data, geopolitical developments remained the primary focus for investors.

    A spokesman for Iran’s military headquarters warned that “all infrastructure in the region” would be “crushed under the steel blows” of Iran’s armed forces if the United States proceeded with threats to target Iranian infrastructure. The comments followed remarks by US President Donald Trump, who warned on Wednesday that Washington would “knock out all their power plants… all their bridges” unless Tehran returned to negotiations.

    Military activity intensified overnight as US forces reportedly carried out strikes around Tehran and in Semnan province, while Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it had struck a US base in Jordan following what it described as an American attack near a children’s cancer hospital in Ahvaz.

    Strait of Hormuz concerns keep investors cautious

    Strategists continued to warn that tensions around the Strait of Hormuz could remain elevated for an extended period.

    Jefferies strategist Mohit Kumar said shipping through the vital energy corridor “has slowed down significantly,” adding that Iran currently appears unwilling to negotiate.

    Kumar said the latest escalation differs from previous confrontations, which had been “meant as an objective to gain an upper hand in negotiations and to eventually de-escalate the situation,” arguing Iran is unlikely to “give up its claim of sovereignty over the Strait that easily” and that he was “doubtful whether there is a unified leadership in Iran that can take that decision.”

    Jefferies said it was “keeping risk levels low” while continuing to expect “eventually we will get a deal even if it’s a fudge,” although the firm believes the current standoff could continue “for a few weeks,” leaving oil prices under continued upward pressure.

    Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance described the recent attacks as part of a “delicate diplomatic dance” during an interview with Joe Rogan, while President Trump said separately, “We’ll find out whether or not we settle with them or we just finish it off.”

    Commodities and corporate news

    Brent crude slipped 0.38% to US$84.63 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate eased 0.08% to US$79.54. Gold futures fell 0.55% to US$4,029.27 an ounce, with spot gold down 0.88% at US$4,025.62.

    Among UK-listed companies, Crest Nicholson (LSE:CRST) warned operating profit is likely to come in at the lower end of its FY2026 guidance and confirmed an extension to a key banking covenant waiver.

    Ocado (LSE:OCDO) said it continues to pursue new retail partnerships in the United States while maintaining its target of becoming cash flow positive.

    TotalEnergies (LSE:TTE) said higher oil and gas prices linked to Middle East tensions are expected to support second-quarter earnings.

    Premier Foods (LSE:PFD) reported a 4% increase in first-quarter branded sales, helped by strong demand for its grocery and sweet treats portfolio.

    Frasers Group (LSE:FRAS) declined to provide guidance for FY2027, citing uncertainty surrounding ongoing takeover activity involving Hugo Boss and Accent Group.

    SSE (LSE:SSE) reaffirmed its earnings guidance after reporting higher investment across its electricity networks and stronger renewable generation, while also announcing the appointment of former National Grid chief executive John Pettigrew to its board.

  • SSE maintains full-year guidance as network investment jumps and renewable output increases (SSE)

    SSE maintains full-year guidance as network investment jumps and renewable output increases (SSE)

    SSE PLC (LSE:SSE) has reaffirmed its earnings guidance after reporting strong progress across its electricity networks and renewables businesses in its first-quarter trading update. The utility highlighted a significant increase in infrastructure investment alongside higher renewable generation, as it continues to execute its long-term growth strategy.

    Network investment accelerates

    SSE’s regulated networks division invested £0.9 billion during the first quarter, representing an 83% increase compared with the same period last year.

    The company said construction continues to advance on its major ASTI and LOTI electricity transmission projects, while investment in its distribution network also increased ahead of the planned submission of its ED3 business plan in December.

    The higher level of spending forms part of SSE’s wider £33 billion investment programme aimed at expanding and modernising the UK’s electricity infrastructure.

    “Since announcing our £33bn investment programme to unlock the enormous growth opportunity of U.K. electricity networks, we are continuing to see real progress as we work to deliver the plan, and in doing so we are underpinning compounding, long-term earnings growth and creating significant value for investors,” Barry O’Regan, CFO of SSE, said.

    Renewable generation strengthens

    SSE Renewables increased electricity generation by 31% year over year during the first quarter, benefiting from more favourable weather conditions and additional generating capacity coming online.

    The stronger operational performance supported the company’s confidence in its financial outlook, despite the seasonal importance of the winter months for energy production.

    Management maintained its adjusted earnings per share guidance of between 168p and 193p for the 2026/27 financial year, while leaving its longer-term target of 225p to 250p for 2029/30 unchanged.

    The company said the guidance issued in May remains valid, although performance will continue to depend on factors including weather conditions, energy markets and plant availability.

    Board strengthened with National Grid veteran

    SSE also announced the appointment of John Pettigrew as an independent non-executive director, effective from 1 December.

    Pettigrew joins the board after more than three decades at National Grid, where he held a range of senior strategic, operational and regulatory leadership positions.

    The appointment adds further industry experience to the board as SSE continues to expand its electricity infrastructure and renewable energy portfolio.

  • Market Open: Frasers Group Growth, Foxtons Profit Warning

    Market Open: Frasers Group Growth, Foxtons Profit Warning

    FTSE 100 edges lower as Iran tensions offset UK GDP strength. Frasers posts stronger results, Foxtons cuts guidance and Brent crude rises.

    Market Overview

    The FTSE 100 opened marginally lower, while Germany’s DAX also slipped and the Euronext 100 was broadly unchanged. Overnight, US markets finished higher, with both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 extending gains. Investors balanced stronger-than-expected UK GDP data against continuing tensions surrounding Iran, while higher oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty kept risk appetite in check.

    Commodity markets reflected the cautious tone. Brent crude continued to strengthen as concerns over potential disruption to global oil supplies supported prices, while gold was unchanged and copper edged lower. Natural gas was little changed, Bitcoin was broadly flat against sterling, and major currency pairs versus the pound showed only modest moves.

    Market Numbers

    FTSE 100: Down (-0.01%), 10,514.96

    Euronext 100: Up (+0.00%), 1,915.62

    DAX: Down (-0.37%), 24,908.18

    NASDAQ: Up, 26,269.23

    S&P 500: Up, 7,572.40

    In the Headlines

    Strong results – Frasers Group (LSE:FRAS)

    Frasers Group reported higher revenue and improved retail profitability as international expansion continued to gather pace. The update highlights continued momentum in its Sports Direct-led growth strategy and reinforces management’s focus on expanding the business across overseas markets.

    Guidance cut – Foxtons (LSE:FOXT)

    Foxtons reduced its profit guidance after warning that lettings reforms and a weaker housing market are weighing on trading conditions. The update points to ongoing pressure on the UK property sector despite the group’s efforts to manage costs and maintain operational resilience.

    Currencies (vs GBP)

    USD: Down (-0.05%), $1.3539

    CHF: Down (-0.05%), Fr.1.0895

    EUR: Unchanged (0.00%), €1.1804

    JPY: Down (-0.01%), ¥219.431

    AUD: Unchanged (0.00%), $1.932

    Bitcoin (BTC/GBP): Down, £47,421.03

    Commodities

    Copper: Down

    Gold: Unchanged

    Brent Crude: Up

    Natural Gas: Unchanged

  • Ocado releases interim results and confirms investor presentation date (OCDO)

    Ocado releases interim results and confirms investor presentation date (OCDO)

    Ocado Group (LSE) has released its interim results for the 26 weeks ended 31 May 2026, with the full report now available through the London Stock Exchange and the company’s investor relations website. The interim report has also been filed with the Financial Conduct Authority’s National Storage Mechanism in line with UK regulatory requirements.

    Interim report published ahead of investor briefing

    Alongside the publication of its half-year results, Ocado confirmed it will hold an investor and analyst presentation at 9:30am on 16 July 2026. The event will be streamed online and followed by a live question-and-answer session, providing shareholders and market participants with an opportunity to discuss the group’s first-half performance and outlook.

    The publication ensures investors have access to detailed financial and operational information while demonstrating the company’s continued commitment to transparent reporting and regulatory compliance.

    Focus remains on operational progress

    The interim announcement forms part of Ocado’s regular financial reporting schedule and supports ongoing engagement with the investment community. The accompanying presentation is expected to provide additional insight into the company’s first-half performance, operational developments and strategic priorities for the remainder of the financial year.

    Investors will be looking for further updates on the group’s technology platform, retail operations and progress towards improving profitability and cash generation.

    Investment outlook

    Ocado continues to make progress in improving cash flow while outlining a clearer pathway towards lower costs and greater operational efficiency. These developments have provided encouragement around the company’s longer-term earnings potential.

    However, challenges remain, including relatively weak underlying operating profitability and leverage-related risks. Although recent technical indicators have improved, they do not yet point to a sustained long-term uptrend, while the group’s valuation remains influenced by ongoing earnings and cash flow volatility.

    About Ocado Group

    Ocado Group is a UK-based online grocery and technology business that develops automated fulfilment, robotics and logistics solutions for retailers around the world. Alongside its consumer grocery operations, the company licenses its proprietary technology platform to international retail partners, positioning itself as a leading provider of e-commerce infrastructure for the grocery sector.

  • DFS Furniture increases profits and strengthens balance sheet despite weaker market conditions (DFS)

    DFS Furniture increases profits and strengthens balance sheet despite weaker market conditions (DFS)

    DFS Furniture (LSE:DFS) expects to deliver significantly higher profits for FY26 after improving margins, maintaining disciplined cost control and generating strong cash flow, despite softer demand across the UK furniture market during the second half of the year. The retailer also reduced debt substantially, strengthening its financial position as trading conditions became more challenging.

    Higher profits supported by margins and cost discipline

    The company expects underlying profit before tax, excluding brand amortisation, to reach approximately £45 million for FY26, representing an increase of around £15 million compared with the previous year and falling within its upgraded guidance range.

    Revenue increased 2.7% during the year, while higher gross margins and continued cost management helped drive improved profitability. Strong free cash flow also enabled DFS to reduce net bank debt to approximately £69 million, lowering leverage to 0.9 times.

    Alongside its financial performance, the group continued investing in its technology platforms and workforce, resulting in record customer Net Promoter Scores and significantly higher employee engagement.

    Softer demand weighs on second half

    Trading conditions became more difficult during the second half as weaker consumer confidence and lower housing transaction volumes reduced demand for furniture purchases.

    Full-year order intake declined 1%, although management noted that performance remained broadly in line with the wider market. The company believes its leading market position, previous cost-saving initiatives and stronger balance sheet have improved its ability to navigate a subdued consumer environment.

    Despite current market pressures, DFS reaffirmed its medium-term objectives of achieving £1.4 billion in annual revenue and an 8% profit-before-tax margin, positioning the business to benefit when consumer demand recovers.

    Investment outlook

    DFS enters the new financial year with stronger profitability, improved cash generation and a significantly healthier balance sheet following meaningful debt reduction. Continued investment in customer experience and operational efficiency also provides a solid platform for future growth.

    While near-term demand remains constrained by the weak housing market and cautious consumer spending, the company’s market leadership and strengthened financial position leave it well placed to benefit from an eventual recovery. Technical indicators remain weak, although improving fundamentals could support sentiment over the longer term.

    About DFS Furniture

    DFS Furniture plc is the UK’s leading retailer of upholstered furniture, operating through the DFS and Sofology brands across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. The group sells sofas and living room furniture through an integrated network of retail stores and online channels, supported by in-house manufacturing, strategic supplier partnerships and its specialist delivery business, The Sofa Delivery Company. Its vertically integrated model enables the company to combine product development, retailing and distribution while maintaining a strong position in the UK upholstery market.

  • Frasers Group grows revenue and retail profits as international expansion accelerates (FRAS)

    Frasers Group grows revenue and retail profits as international expansion accelerates (FRAS)

    Frasers Group (LSE:FRAS) delivered strong revenue growth and higher retail profitability during FY26, with overseas expansion continuing to drive performance. The retailer also improved gross margins and advanced its international growth strategy through acquisitions, new store openings and strategic investments, despite reporting lower adjusted pre-tax profit due to higher impairment charges and financing costs.

    International growth drives stronger retail performance

    Group revenue increased 8.7% to £5.33 billion during the financial year, supported by a 59.2% increase in international retail sales as Frasers continued to expand its global presence.

    Retail gross margin improved by 150 basis points, reflecting a greater contribution from higher-margin businesses including Sports Direct and Flannels. Retail trading profit rose 22.1% to £912.5 million, while UK Sports trading profit increased 17.6%, highlighting continued strength in the company’s core operations.

    Adjusted profit before tax declined during the year, however, as higher impairment charges and increased interest costs outweighed gains generated through strategic investments. The group also completed the disposal of its non-core Coventry Arena asset as part of its ongoing portfolio optimisation.

    Expansion strategy gathers momentum

    Frasers continued to execute its Elevation Strategy by strengthening both its international retail footprint and investment portfolio.

    During the year, the company opened a flagship Sports Direct store in Liverpool, acquired Holdsport in South Africa and Nordic retailer XXL, and expanded into additional international markets including Malta, Australia and the Middle East.

    The group also increased its exposure to the premium retail sector through an investment in US luxury retailer The Webster, additional UK retail property acquisitions, and larger shareholdings in HUGO BOSS and Accent Group.

    Alongside its retail expansion, Frasers continued to grow its Frasers Plus financial services offering and secured a new £3.3 billion loan and revolving credit facility to support future international growth initiatives.

    Investment outlook

    Frasers Group continues to demonstrate strong operational execution, supported by improving retail margins, growing international sales and a diversified portfolio of retail, property and strategic investments.

    Although higher financing costs and impairment charges weighed on statutory profitability, the underlying performance of the retail business remained robust. While technical indicators currently point to weaker market momentum, the shares continue to appear attractively valued relative to the company’s long-term growth prospects and expansion strategy.

    About Frasers Group

    Frasers Group is a UK retail group operating across sports retail, premium fashion and international multi-brand retailing. Its portfolio includes Sports Direct, Flannels and several other retail brands, alongside a growing international business, the Frasers Plus financial services platform, and an extensive commercial property and strategic investment portfolio that supports its omnichannel growth strategy.

  • Premier Foods delivers strong branded growth and remains on course to meet full-year expectations (PFD)

    Premier Foods delivers strong branded growth and remains on course to meet full-year expectations (PFD)

    Premier Foods (LSE:PFD) reported another quarter of branded sales growth, driven by continued product innovation, expanding distribution and strong demand across its grocery and sweet treats portfolio. The company said performance during the 13 weeks to 27 June 2026 keeps it firmly on track to achieve its full-year trading profit targets.

    Branded portfolio delivers broad-based growth

    Group branded revenue increased 4.0% during the quarter, while total revenue rose 2.7%, supported by strong performances from both the UK Grocery and Sweet Treats divisions.

    Mr Kipling was the standout performer within Sweet Treats, delivering 9% sales growth as new product launches continued to attract consumers. In Grocery, established brands including OXO, Angel Delight and Ambrosia benefited from ongoing innovation and further market share gains.

    Premier Foods also continued to expand into new product categories, where revenue increased 16%, helped by strong demand for Cape Herb & Spice products and wider distribution across major retailers.

    International expansion supports momentum

    The group’s international business also delivered another period of growth, with revenue rising 6% on a constant currency basis.

    Europe recorded double-digit growth, supported by the continued rollout of the FUEL10K brand, while North America and Australasia also contributed solid performances. Recently acquired brands maintained double-digit revenue growth, highlighting the success of Premier Foods’ acquisition strategy and its ability to integrate new businesses effectively.

    Management said the continued momentum across both domestic and international markets leaves the company well positioned to meet its trading profit expectations for FY26/27.

    Investment outlook

    Premier Foods continues to demonstrate consistent operational execution, supported by improving profitability, healthy cash generation and manageable debt levels. Ongoing innovation, successful category expansion and growing international sales provide multiple drivers for future growth.

    The shares also benefit from an attractive valuation relative to earnings, while positive technical indicators suggest investor sentiment remains supportive as the company continues to build on its recent momentum.

    About Premier Foods

    Premier Foods is one of the UK’s largest food manufacturers, employing more than 4,000 people across 13 production sites. The company supplies retailers, wholesalers and foodservice customers with a portfolio of leading grocery and ambient food brands, including Ambrosia, Bisto, Mr Kipling, OXO and Sharwood’s. Its portfolio has also expanded through acquisitions such as The Spice Tailor, FUEL10K and Merchant Gourmet, strengthening its presence across both established and emerging food categories.

  • U.S. futures advance as softer inflation data boosts market sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street

    U.S. futures advance as softer inflation data boosts market sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street

    U.S. stock futures traded higher on Wednesday after another encouraging inflation report strengthened hopes that the Federal Reserve may not need to raise interest rates in the near term. Investors, however, remained cautious as rising oil prices and escalating tensions in the Middle East continued to cloud the broader outlook.

    Producer prices fall more than expected

    Markets reacted positively after the U.S. Labor Department reported that producer prices declined by 0.3 percent in June, exceeding expectations for a 0.1 percent decrease.

    The annual producer inflation rate also slowed to 5.5 percent from a revised 6.0 percent in May, adding to evidence that inflationary pressures may be easing.

    The figures followed Tuesday’s weaker-than-expected consumer inflation report, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve could adopt a more patient approach to monetary policy.

    Rising oil prices limit optimism

    Despite the softer inflation data, gains across equity futures remained measured as crude oil prices continued to climb.

    During an interview with Fox News, President Donald Trump warned that further military action against Iran remained possible.

    “unless they get to the table and negotiate.”

    Higher energy prices have raised concerns that inflation could prove more persistent, potentially delaying any future reduction in interest rates.

    Technology stocks lead Wall Street higher

    U.S. markets closed higher on Tuesday, led by gains in technology shares.

    The Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.9 percent, while the S&P 500 added 0.4 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average finished only slightly higher after being weighed down by a sharp decline in IBM (NYSE:IBM).

    IBM falls while chip stocks rebound

    IBM shares plunged more than 25 percent after the company released preliminary quarterly results that disappointed investors.

    Meanwhile, semiconductor stocks recovered strongly, with the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rising 2.5 percent and the NYSE Arca Computer Hardware Index gaining 2.7 percent.

    Steel, networking and gold-related shares also posted solid gains, while healthcare, pharmaceutical and airline stocks underperformed.

    Investors are continuing to monitor incoming economic data and geopolitical developments for further direction.