Stock Market Today, April 27: S&P 500 Inches to New Record on Further AI Optimism
The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX:^GSPC) inched up 0.12% to 7,173.91, reaching a new high. The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX:^IXIC) rose 0.20% to 24,887.10 on AI strength, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES:^DJI) slipped 0.13% to 49,167.79 as geopolitical and rate jitters capped blue chips.
Market movers
Nvidia advanced to fresh records while and Micron Technology gained on positive analyst commentary. Persistent artificial intelligence (AI) and data-center optimism continues, though investors will be watching as several of the Magnificent Seven due to report earnings this week.
Microsoft wobbled after a joint announcement with OpenAI that ended its exclusive access to the technology, though it ended the day in the green. Poet Technologies cratered almost 50% after losing key orders from Marvell Technology.
What this means for investors
Continued Middle East tensions did not stop the S&P 500 and Nasdaq from edging upwards again today. Oil prices also rose, with WTI crude briefly topping $97 a barrel as blockades continue to stop tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
It isn’t easy to navigate markets that are hovering near highs while economists also warn about the long-term economic impact of elevated fuel costs. Diversification and careful risk management is crucial. Also watch for any commentary from the Federal Reserve following this week’s meeting on inflation and the wider economy.
AI and data centers are likely to dominate this week as Nvidia and Micron continue to surge. Some investors are looking for other AI plays, such as the companies that mine essential commodities or provide power.
Should you buy stock in S&P 500 Index right now?
Before you buy stock in S&P 500 Index, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and S&P 500 Index wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $498,522!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,276,807!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 983% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 200% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
See the 10 stocks »
*Stock Advisor returns as of April 27, 2026.
Emma Newbery has positions in Apple and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Marvell Technology, Micron Technology, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Recommended Articles
