Stock Market Update

[BRIEFING.COM] The S&P 500 (+0.4%) and Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) are higher, boosted by rebound action in mega caps after leading yesterday's retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is nearly 400 points lower, though, clipped by an earnings-related decline in UnitedHealth (UNH 470.11, -114.93, -19.6%).

UnitedHealth, which is among the heaviest components in the price-weighted average, reported disappointing earnings and guidance.  

Some other corporate news garnered strong positive responses. Eli Lilly (LLY 844.45, +110.10, +15.0%) is a standout in that respect after it announced positive trial results for its weight-loss drug pill. 

The market is also responding to comments from President Trump indicating that there has been progress on trade talks.