S&P 500 and Nasdaq Hit Records as Iran Ceasefire Extended, Earnings Lift Stocks

Gate News message, April 22 — US stocks surged to record closes on April 22 as President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran, while strong first-quarter corporate earnings bolstered investor sentiment.

The S&P 500 gained 73.89 points (1.05%) to close at 7,137.90, the Nasdaq Composite rose 397.60 points (1.64%) to 24,657.57, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 340.65 points (0.69%) to 49,490.03. The technology sector led gains with a 2.31% jump, while the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index marked its 11th consecutive intraday record and 16th straight day of gains—its longest streak ever.

First-quarter earnings growth is tracking at about 14%, with notable movers including GE Vernova surging 13.75% after raising its annual revenue forecast, Boston Scientific jumping 8.99% following strong quarterly results, and Boeing advancing 5.53% after reporting a smaller-than-expected loss. Tesla climbed 4.6% after hours on a surprise positive free cash flow report, and Spirit Airlines more than doubled to $1.50 on reports of a potential Trump administration rescue deal. However, risks remain: the US Navy's blockade of Iranian ports continues, Iran has seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, and oil prices hover near $100 per barrel.