Stocks Mixed as Government Shutdown Looms, Anthropic Announces $50 Billion AI Investment
Stocks closed mixed today as Wall Street awaits a final House vote on a Senate-backed bill to reopen the federal government, while tech investment firm Anthropic announced a massive $50 billion investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average reached an all-time high earlier in the session, but the S&P 500 and Nasdaq faced pressure due to lagging tech stocks and a rotation into sectors like healthcare and financials. Eli Lilly topped $1,000 per share for the first time, and Goldman Sachs soared 3%, both benefiting investors. This shift highlights ongoing investor sensitivity to economic and political uncertainty.
Anthropic’s investment will focus on building data centers in New York and Texas, with the first facilities expected to be operational next year. The company stated the energy-intensive facilities will power its AI tools and expand research and development for its Claude chatbot. This commitment is expected to boost demand for companies like GE Vernova, Eaton, and Dover, which supply components for data center construction – a sector projected to exceed $5 trillion between 2026 and 2030, according to JPMorgan.
Ahead of its earnings release next month, TD Cowen raised its price target for Broadcom to $405 from $370, citing increased AI spending by major tech companies. Analysts noted that OpenAI’s recent partnerships with Nvidia, Amazon, Microsoft, and Oracle are driving demand for computing capacity and chips. Investors are closely watching earnings reports, including those from Cisco Systems, expected after market close today, and Disney, scheduled for tomorrow morning; you can find more information about CNBC’s Investing Club holdings here.
Officials anticipate the House will hold its final vote on the government funding bill this evening, potentially averting a prolonged shutdown.
