Stock Market Update

[BRIEFING.COM] The major averages continue to plot new session highs as the market enters the final half hour of trading. 

Sector performance continues to be strong, as only the defensive utilities (-0.5%) and consumer staples (-0.1%) sectors trade below their opening levels. 

Meanwhile, the consumer discretionary sector (2.0%) broadens its gain for the day as Amazon (AMZN 235.12, +9.13, +4.04%) moves further past its 50-day moving average (225.10). 

Williams-Sonoma (WSM 201.96, +9.83, +5.12%) is the top performer in the sector, taking back losses it incurred after its earnings report on August 27, which featured an EPS beat, in-line revenues, and upside guidance for FY26 EPS and comparable sales. 

The financials sector (+0.9%) holds the next widest gain among the nine S&P 500 sectors trading above their baseline.

Homebuilder names are also putting together solid performances in response to reinforced rate cut expectations, with the iShares U.S. Home Construction ETF advancing 2.6%.