The S&P 500 (SPX) rose today as the stock market recovered from a drop yesterday caused by tariff news. That includes delays to tariffs on Canada and Mexico as President Donald Trump struck deals with the two nations’ leaders. However, the trade war with China continues as it places retaliatory tariffs on the U.S.
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Another highlight today was new economic data from the U.S. Department of Labor. Included in this were job openings decreasing more than expected during December. This data comes as investors closely watch the economy amid trade wars and inflation concerns.
Today’s news brings with it a .071% increase for the SPX, building on its 1.92% jump since the start of the year. Investors are no doubt pleased that positive movement continues for the index, which is up 21.28% over the past 52 weeks.
Which Stocks Are Lifting the SPX Higher Today?
Turning to the TipRanks SPX heatmap tool, traders will see which stocks are raising the index higher on Tuesday. The entire market is lifting the S&P 500 higher today with the heatmap largely green. That includes strong gains in the technology, communication services, financial, and consumer cyclical sectors. If any areas are weighing the index down, it’s the consumer defensive and healthcare segments.
How to Invest in the S&P 500
Investors can’t take a direct stake in the S&P 500 as it’s only an index. Instead, they might consider a stake in the companies listed on it. Nabbing stocks up before further recovery might not be a bad idea, or investors might buy shares down today in hopes they bounce back.
There’s also the option of buying shares of an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that tracks the SPX, including those betting on and against the index. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is one popular choice among traders but there are plenty of other options available.
