US stocks open higher on Tuesday: Dow Jones jumps 200 points to hit new ATH

• December retail sales came in flat versus expectations of 0.4% growth, with year-over-year sales rising only 2.4% compared to 3.3% in November, signaling slower consumer spending during the holiday season
• The S&P 500 reclaimed its 50-day and 100-day moving averages after briefly dipping below them last week, a technical signal that traders view as bullish
• Investors are now focused on the monthly US jobs report due Wednesday and the January consumer price index on Friday, which could shape Federal Reserve policy expectations

Market Summary: US Stocks Rally Despite Weak Retail Sales

Market Performance:

US equities opened higher on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average surging 239 points (+0.5%) to establish a new all-time high. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite both gained 0.1%, marking the third consecutive day of advances. This rally extended Monday's gains, when the Dow rose 0.04%, the S&P 500 climbed 0.5%, and the Nasdaq jumped 0.9%.

Economic Data:

December retail sales came in flat, missing economist expectations of a 0.4% monthly increase, following November's 0.6% rise. Sales excluding autos were also unchanged versus forecasts of 0.3% growth. Year-over-year retail sales increased 2.4%, decelerating from November's 3.3% pace. The US Commerce Department attributed the weakness to adverse weather, tariff impacts, and persistent inflation, with lower-income households showing particular caution during the holiday shopping season.

Technical Developments:

The S&P 500 reclaimed its 50-day and 100-day moving averages after briefly falling below them last week—a signal traders interpret as bullish. Technology stocks led Monday's session, recovering from the previous week's selloff triggered by concerns over software and megacap tech companies.

Market Outlook:

Investors are now focused on critical upcoming economic releases: the monthly US jobs report due Wednesday and January's consumer price index on Friday. These reports will be closely scrutinized for insights into economic momentum, inflation trajectory, and Federal Reserve policy direction. The market's resilience despite weak consumer data suggests optimism about sustained upward momentum, though participants remain vigilant about potential cooling economic conditions.