US stocks open mixed: Dow Jones hits new high, S&P 500 flat

• ADP reported 41,000 private-sector jobs added in December, below the 48,000 consensus estimate, with all gains concentrated in services industries while manufacturing lost 5,000 positions
• Crude oil prices dropped sharply after Trump announced Venezuela would provide up to 50 million barrels of oil to the US, weighing on energy stocks but benefiting refiners on expectations of eased sanctions
• The S&P 500 is approaching 7,000 and the Dow nearing 50,000 after three consecutive years of double-digit gains, though forecasters cite risks including trade tensions and signs of economic slowdown

Market Summary: US Stocks Mixed as Dow Hits Record High

Market Performance (January 7, 2026)

US stocks delivered mixed results Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbing 120 points (+0.2%) to a new all-time high. The S&P 500 remained relatively flat but managed a record close, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite declined 0.1%. The S&P 500 is approaching the 7,000 level, and the Dow is nearing 50,000, following three consecutive years of double-digit gains.

Energy Sector Developments

Crude oil prices dropped sharply after President Trump announced Venezuela's interim authorities would deliver up to 50 million barrels of oil to the US, raising supply concerns. However, refiners gained on reports suggesting indefinite Venezuelan oil sales and potential sanctions relief. Mining stocks underperformed as gold and silver prices retreated.

Employment Data

ADP reported US private sector payrolls added 41,000 jobs in December, reversing November's 29,000 loss but missing the consensus estimate of 48,000. Job growth concentrated in services: education/health services (+39,000), leisure/hospitality (+24,000), and financial services (+6,000). Losses occurred in professional/business services (-29,000), information services (-12,000), and manufacturing (-5,000). Small employers (under 500 workers) accounted for most hiring, while large firms added only 2,000 positions.

Market Outlook

Despite the rally continuing into 2026, optimism remains tempered by risks including trade tensions, geopolitical uncertainty, and signs of economic slowdown. Traders await additional economic data later this week to inform growth and monetary policy expectations.