Markets Close Lackluster Session on Either Side of the Aisle

All three major indexes spent most of the day flirting with breakeven, eventually settling mixed as attention began to turn to next week's Federal Reserve meeting, which will bring the final interest rate decision for 2025. A set of jobs data mostly went unobserved, while Treasury yields saw a lift. As we head into Friday, the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 are all headed for weekly gains. 

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• There's more than rate-cut buzz slated for next week.
• Grim outlook stains Snowflake stock.
• Plus, two stocks with flashing bull signals; a pair of retailers with divided earnings reactions.

Failed Ukraine Peace Talks Extend Crude Gains

A lack of progress in Ukraine peace talks is pushing crude prices higher. January-dated West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 59 cents, or 1.2%, to close at $59.67 per barrel.

A hike in bond yields and a weak greenback is sending gold futures into the black for another session. February-dated gold added 0.2% to settle at $4,243 per ounce.