The stock market was higher on Thursday after Microsoft (MSFT) and Meta Platforms (META) rekindled AI trade. This eased concerns that major technology companies would experience a slowdown amid tariff uncertainty.
Overall, S&P 500 rose 0.6% to 5,604, while NASDAQ increased 1.5% to 17,711.
Chart of the Day
Here is the one-year chart of Costco Wholesale (COST) as of April 7, 2025, when the stock was at $908.
Costco’s e-commerce segment stood out in last quarter’s results with 21% year-over-year sales growth. Overall, the company delivered a 3% bump in profits during the quarter on a 9% rise in sales as same-store sales increased 7%.
Gold and silver (bullion) saw strength, while home furnishings, small electronics, hardware, and sporting goods also saw sales increase by double digits compared to last year.
Costco has made shopping easier with an app tool that lets members see which items are available at nearby warehouses and check their prices. This tool has already been used over 43 million times. The company also enhanced its digital marketing by sending personalized mailers based on each customer’s shopping habits.
COST is on the radar for our Conservative Growth Portfolio.
