American equity markets edge higher Wednesday

The US Stock market experienced a positive opening Wednesday following the release of economic data in the US. In the United States, Retail Sales (MoM) rose +0.1% in January, against expectations of +0.1% and down from +0.5% previously. In addition, Retail Sales ex Autos (MoM) reported a figure of +0.2% in January, exceeding a consensus of only +0.1%.

Beginning with the indices and composites, the NASDAQ rose +0.26% as it settles in region of 3195.09, up +8.59 points in these moments. In addition, the S&P 500 is trading in positive territory, operating at 1522.88, ascending +3.45 points or +0.22% at the time of writing. Finally, the Dow Jones has moved higher at the opening as well, trading in the zone of 14025.65, presently +0.06% after a marginal climb of +6.95 points.

Sectors are all in the red at the opening, however the Conglomerates and Basic Materials sectors have distinguished themselves as the winners thus far, rising +1.73% and +0.73% respectively. In other news, the price of crude has settled above USD $97.79 Wednesday.