Mixed Close for Stocks as Oil and Bond Yields Climb
U.S. stocks ended mixed on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as the Dow fell 161.70 points to 51,350 while the Nasdaq edged up 3.34 points. Overnight futures weakened as oil and Treasury yields climbed, with WTI crude up more than 2% early and the 30-year yield reaching 5.446%, its highest since 2004. Investor sentiment remained fearful, with the Fear & Greed Index at 35/100 and the AAII bull-bear spread improving to -15.4%.
On Sept. 24, 2026, the Dow slipped 161.70 points to 51,350, while the S&P 500 eased 1.80 points to 7,704 and the Nasdaq added 3.34 points to 26,939. The Russell 2000 lost 3.05 points, ending at 2,835.
Overnight, climbing crude and long-dated Treasury yields pressured futures. WTI advanced over 2% early, and the 30-year yield touched 5.446%, its highest level since 2004. Initial unemployment filings decreased to 197,000, while new single-family home purchases increased 6.4%, reaching a 684,000 annualized pace. The Fear & Greed Index read 35/100, and the AAII bull-bear spread improved to -15.4%.
Higher oil and long-term yields could keep borrowing costs elevated, affecting households with mortgages, auto loans, and credit-card debt, as well as businesses planning investment. Mixed equity results may influence retirement and brokerage accounts, while fearful sentiment could make consumers more cautious. At the same time, stronger new-home sales may support housing-related activity, though rising energy expenses could squeeze discretionary spending.