On February 18, 2025, the S&P 500 marked a record closing high with a slight gain of 0.2% as trading resumed after Presidents Day, reflecting the market’s cautious optimism ahead of forthcoming insights from the Federal Reserve. The anticipated release of the Fed’s latest meeting minutes, alongside comments from various officials, is set to provide clarity on the central bank’s future policy directions. Notably, major earnings reports from key players like Walmart are also on the horizon this week.
After fluctuating through the session, the Dow and Nasdaq also finished slightly higher, both achieving upticks of less than 0.1%. Among the day’s standout performers was Super Micro Computer (SMCI), whose shares skyrocketed by over 16% following a promising business forecast for fiscal 2026. The company expressed confidence in meeting an impending regulatory deadline related to its annual report, which is crucial to avoid potential delisting.
A significant contributor to Intel’s stock surge, which rose approximately 16%, was news from The Wall Street Journal indicating that major competitors Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Broadcom might be exploring deals to acquire parts of Intel. Broadcom is reportedly eyeing Intel’s semiconductor design and marketing sectors, while TSMC may be interested in Intel’s manufacturing operations.
In contrast, Medtronic’s shares took a hit, plunging over 7% after the company fell short of sales expectations for its fiscal third quarter. Despite exceeding adjusted earnings estimates, weaker sales from its stapling and blood oxygen management lines heavily impacted overall performance.
Other notable movements included a 14% rise in Walgreens Boots Alliance shares, driven by renewed speculation regarding a potential sale to private equity firm Sycamore Partners. This follows previous discussions that seemed to stall but may now be gaining traction again.
Conversely, Conagra Brands lowered its full-year sales guidance due to supply issues, resulting in a 5.5% decline in its shares. The company cited challenges in its main processing facility and unexpected demand increases in frozen vegetables as significant factors affecting its forecast.
Additionally, UnitedHealth Group faced a 4.4% drop as it navigates potential hurdles regarding its acquisition plans for Amedisys, following the FTC’s announcement to maintain stringent merger review guidelines established during the Biden administration.
Overall, while some sectors face challenges, the market reflects an optimistic trajectory as companies adjust to evolving economic conditions and pursue growth opportunities. The performance this week will be closely watched as insights from the Federal Reserve and earnings reports unfold.