U.S. Markets Gain as Berkshire Hathaway Portfolio Shifts and Inflation Cools

U.S. stock markets opened higher on Thursday, driven by Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio changes and easing inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.7%, supported by new Berkshire stakes in Nucor Corp. and UnitedHealth Group, while the company trimmed its Apple holdings. Nucor and UnitedHealth shares gained over 2%, whereas Apple saw a slight dip.

Fresh inflation figures showed a slowdown in price growth, reducing fears of aggressive Federal Reserve rate hikes. This boosted investor confidence, particularly in real estate and consumer discretionary sectors.

Amazon shares jumped 2.9% after announcing expansion plans, though technology and semiconductor stocks underperformed on weaker guidance. Oil prices climbed on supply concerns, and bond yields edged up as investors favored equities.

Analysts suggest the combination of strategic investments and softer inflation could keep markets positive, though geopolitical risks and Fed policy remain key watchpoints.