Stock Market Summary – July 30, 2025

The stock market is soon entering a period of historically little movement, according to data from Wolfe Research. It finds that the S&P 500’s monthly total return for August and September since 1990 has averaged a drop of 0.3% and 0.7%, respectively. However, the S&P 500 index currently has a near 3% rise for this month, nearly double the historical average return of 1.5% for July; year to date, the index has climbed more than 8%.

On another note, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order ending the de minimis trade loophole for low-value packages from all nations, effective August 29. All imported shipments of goods into the U.S. worth $800 or less will now be subjected to duties.

In the Federal Reserve, there’s division. The overnight borrowing rate is being kept steady, with a 9-2 vote against lowering it. However, some governors are arguing in favor of easing, in recognition of inflation being under control and that the labor market could potentially weaken.

Regarding tariffs, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged corporate America, investors, and U.S. trade partners “not to panic.” Bessent suggests that negotiations can continue even after President Donald Trump’s August 1 tariff deadline.

Meanwhile, water purification stock Veralto (VLTO) is set for a possible bullish breakout. Earnings were reported on Monday and the initial reaction was strong enough for the stock to finish above the breakout zone. The upside target of $124 could be within sight if this trend continues. The stock has the opportunity to leverage a large bullish pattern, as it did last year.

Palo Alto Networks’ shares fell nearly 6% following its announcement of a $25 billion acquisition of CyberArk, almost erasing the company’s year-to-date gains. Despite this decline, Jim Cramer upgraded his rating on the cybersecurity firm’s stock to a buy-equivalent 1, arguing the acquisition would solidify Palo Alto’s market position.

Bank of America has noted a trend of companies providing substantial dividends that can cover their cash flows, despite being stretched to pay out. It noted several companies that stood out in this regard, including Exxon Mobil, American Electric Power, Ventas, Philip Morris International, and Coca-Cola.

Jim Cramer’s Charitable Trust is buying 30 shares of Dover at approximately $183 each. Following this purchase, the trust will own 720 shares, increasing its stake to 3.6%. Cramer also expressed interest in buying Starbucks and Palo Alto Networks shares.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the Fed can maintain the interest rate while waiting to observe the impact of tariffs on inflation. He explained that higher tariffs have started to affect the prices of certain goods more clearly.

Microsoft is scheduled to report its fiscal fourth-quarter results. Analysts have estimated earnings per share of $3.37 and revenue of $73.81 billion. These estimates represent an estimated 14% increase in year-over-year revenue for Microsoft. The company has been boosting its data center capacity to cater to the high demand for AI models.

Please refer to the full articles for stock market numbers of Dow, S&P, and Nasdaq as well as the main gainers and losers stock performance.