Stock Market Recap: Dow and S&P 500 Achieve Best Week Since 2023 Amid Tariff Turbulence
April 11, 2025, by Brett LoGiurato, Karen Friar, and Ines Ferré
In a week marked by volatility and significant tariff-related turbulence, the U.S. stock market ended on a high note, with both the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 notching their best weekly performances since 2023. On Friday, stocks rose markedly as investors responded to the latest developments in the ongoing trade conflict between the United States and China.
Market Gains on Friday
The S&P 500 climbed 1.8% as it oscillated throughout the trading session, while the technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite surged 2.1%. The Dow finished the day up by 1.5%, gaining nearly 600 points as these three indices concluded a rollercoaster week that’s seen sharp fluctuations.
During the last week, President Trump’s aggressive tariff strategies contributed to extreme market movements. Stocks recorded historic gains on Wednesday, only to face sharp declines the following day. Despite the ups and downs, the S&P 500 and Dow both achieved their best weekly growth since last year, while the Nasdaq enjoyed a significant 7% increase—the largest since 2022. ### Tariff Policies Prompt Market Whiplash
This week’s chaos was primarily triggered by changing tariff dynamics. Following an announcement from President Trump that endorsed increased tariffs on imports from China to 145%, investors reacted with optimism initially. However, immediate feedback from China stated that it would raise tariffs on American goods to 125%, exacerbating the trade tensions and leading to heightened uncertainty.
“The extreme volatility in the market over the past week can be traced back to Trump’s fast-paced tariff announcements, which have created a whiplash effect on stock prices,” noted analysts observing market behavior.
Rising Treasury Yields and Consumer Confidence
Amid these developments, the yield on the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note rose to its highest level since February, closing at approximately 4.5%. Conversely, the U.S. dollar weakened, slipping below the 100 mark, while gold soared past a record high of $3,200 per ounce—evidence of shifting investor confidence in U.S. economic stability.
Consumer sentiment reflected the adverse effects of the tariff situation, declining to its lowest point since 2022. Many consumers expressed concerns about potential inflationary impacts in the coming year due to ongoing trade issues.
Earnings Season Progresses
The start of earnings season compounded the week’s developments, with major financial institutions like JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, and BlackRock releasing their quarterly results. JPMorgan’s CEO Jamie Dimon described the current economic climate as experiencing "extreme turbulence," which reflects broader market sentiments amidst the instability brought about by fiscal policy changes.
Conclusion
As Wall Street wraps up this chaotic week, analysts continue to monitor the evolving situation regarding trade and tariffs. While the past week brought substantial gains for major indices, the fluctuating nature of the current markets raises questions about future stability and investor confidence.
For continued updates on market trends and tariff-related developments, follow our detailed coverage.
Share this article:
