Stock market today: Dow rises, S&P 500 and Nasdaq drop as chip stocks slide, US crude oil surges above $100

March 30, 2026 - 17:13

Financial markets experienced a sharp divide in Tuesday's trading session, reflecting investor unease as ongoing conflict in the Middle East fuels uncertainty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average managed to secure gains, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite both closed lower, dragged down by a significant sell-off in semiconductor stocks.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq felt particular pressure as major chipmakers retreated, signaling a pullback from the previously high-flying artificial intelligence sector. This sector rotation highlighted a cautious move away from growth-oriented investments.

Adding to the market's turbulent mood, the price of U.S. benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude oil surged above $100 per barrel. This jump is directly tied to the escalating conflict, now in its second month, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions and broader inflationary pressures. The combination of erratic political commentary and sustained geopolitical instability is creating a fraught environment for investors, who are balancing strong economic data against the risk of a wider regional war. The day's split performance underscores the market's struggle to find a clear direction amidst competing crosscurrents.