U.S. Indexes Pulled Ahead Powered by Strong Earnings Results and Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Barry Adams
03 Feb, 2026
New York City

U.S. stock indexes advanced for the second consecutive session this week amid earnings optimism and receding geopolitical tensions. 

The S&P 500 Index increased 0.5%, and the tech-focused Nasdaq Composite advanced 0.9% as investors reacted to quarterly results of PepsiCo, NXP Semiconductors, Teradyne, and Palantir Technologies. 

Market sentiment was further bolstered after the U.S. president lowered tariffs on India's goods to 18% from 50% and waived the additional 25% tariff imposed last year. 

Trump backed down from high tariffs from China, Japan, the European Union, Canada, and Mexico, confirming the term "Trump Always Chickens Out" after several tariff threats and reversals in 2025.

Immediate-month delivery futures prices of gold rebounded 5.1% to $308.0, and silver surged 8.2% to $308.0, and precious metals plunged between 20% and 30% over the last two trading sessions. 

 

U.S. Movers 

Palantir Technologies jumped 10.9% to $163.85 after the defense and intelligence contractor reported higher-than-estimated revenue and earnings in its latest quarter. 

The company reported revenues of $1.4 billion and adjusted earnings per share of 25 cents, surpassing market expectations. 

NXP Semiconductors decreased 5% to $219.48 despite the company reporting better-than-expected quarterly results. The advanced semiconductor company's guidance for the adjusted gross margin in the current quarter of 57% overshadows its results. 

Teradyne jumped 23% to $308.0 after the robotics company's current quarter was ahead of market expectations. 

The task automation and electronic testing company estimated revenue between $1.15 billion and $1.25 billion, and the company reported fourth-quarter revenue of $1.1 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $1.80.