Gotrade News - The Nasdaq Composite climbed over 100 points, even though the Fear and Greed Index remained in the 'Extreme Fear' zone on Tuesday. The Federal Reserve's two-day policy meeting also influenced market sentiment.
Key Takeaways:
- Nasdaq rose by over 100 points while the fear index stayed high.
- Investors await the Fed meeting outcome, which may keep rates around 3.75%.
- Brent crude prices fell, despite an oil agreement between Iraq and Turkey.
Most sectors in the S&P 500 ended the trading session positively, supported by significant gains in the energy, consumer discretionary, and communication services sectors. However, stocks in the consumer staples and healthcare sectors declined.
The market's focus is now on Fed Chair Jerome Powell's statement, which will influence sentiment on inflation and oil prices. Producer Price Index data is also anticipated to impact market movements the following day.
While the stock market showed positive momentum, the fear sentiment was measured at 21.5 on Tuesday, indicating that investor anxiety remains high. This underscores pressure on stock prices, even as some indices show strength.
Brent crude dropped over 2% amid news of the reopening of Iraq's oil exports through the Ceyhan port, easing previous supply disruption worries due to the Iran conflict. The Fed's final decision on interest rates and other economic data will be key determinants for market direction in the near term.
Reference:
- Bloomberg, Gold Steady Near $5,000 as Investors Weigh Fed Rate-Cut Path. Accessed on March 18, 2026
- Benzinga, Nasdaq Gains 100 Points Ahead Of Fed Decision: Fear & Greed Index Remains In 'Extreme Fear' Zone. Accessed on March 18, 2026
- Benzinga, Will S&P 500 Open Up Or Down On Wednesday? Fed Rate Decision, Powell's Comments And PPI Data In Focus As Oil Slips. Accessed on March 18, 2026
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