Up:

Micron Technology

Micron Technology saw a remarkable 15% increase in its stock price following the release of better-than-expected financial figures. The company's strong performance in the semiconductor sector, particularly in areas related to artificial intelligence, has boosted investor confidence. This positive earnings report has led to a surge in its stock value.

Nvidia, AMD, ARM, Broadcom

American semiconductor companies, particularly those perceived as AI-compatible like Nvidia, AMD, ARM, and Broadcom, have returned to the spotlight. These companies benefited from the overall positive sentiment in the tech sector, driven by strong performance and better-than-expected figures from Micron. This has led to a rise in their stock prices, contributing to the Nasdaq 100's upward movement. Nvidia's stock rose by 2%, Broadcom gained 1.5%, AMD increased by 3%, and Qualcomm saw a 1% uptick.

Southwest Airlines: Climbing on Revenue Growth Plan

Southwest Airlines' stock rose by more than 10%. The airline unveiled a three-year plan aimed at driving revenue growth and returning to industry-leading profitability. Key initiatives include introducing assigned seating, premium seating with extra legroom, and expanding international reach through partnerships. Southwest also plans to offer vacation packages and improve its Rapid Rewards program. The company aims to achieve an additional $4 billion in cumulative incremental earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) by 2027 and has set a target for a 15% return on invested capital by the same year.

Alibaba, JD.com, and PDD: Boosted by Chinese Economic Measures

Chinese e-commerce giants Alibaba, JD.com, and PDD saw significant stock price increases, rising by 8.4%, 12%, and 9%, respectively. This surge was driven by positive macroeconomic developments in China. The Chinese Communist Party's Politburo reaffirmed its commitment to achieving annual growth targets and announced measures to stimulate the struggling real estate market. These actions included lowering credit costs and lifting some purchase and construction restrictions, boosting investor confidence in Chinese equities. 

Freeport McMoran, Southern Copper, and Alcoa: Rising with Metal Prices

Mining companies Freeport McMoRan and Southern Copper, saw their stocks rise by about 7%. The surge in metal prices, particularly gold, contributed to the positive performance of these companies. Investors are increasingly turning to metals as a safe haven amid economic uncertainties, driving up demand and prices.

Trip.com: Up on Prosus Stake Sale

Trip.com shares rose 6.7% following the news that Dutch e-commerce investor Prosus sold its stake in the online travel platform for $743 million. Prosus sold 14.5 million shares at $51.40 each through a block trade. The sale is part of Prosus's active portfolio management strategy, which has been ongoing over the summer. The divestment boosted investor confidence in Trip.com, leading to the stock's rise.

Down:

Oil Sector

The oil sector experienced a violent correction, leading to choppy stock prices for oil companies, as oil prices fell sharply due to Saudi Arabia's new policy. The volatility in oil prices has directly impacted the stock performance of companies within this sector.  Halliburton's stock fell 3.2%.