The Dow Jones Industrial Average crossed 40,000 for the first time ever and is on pace for its 19th record close as investors celebrate solid earnings and a slight easing of consumer inflation last month. It will mark the third 1,000 point milestone of 2024.
The Dow has gained about 6% this year and a strong quarter from the nation's largest retailer, Walmart, helped propel gains on Thursday. It closed above 30,000 on Nov. 24, 2020. Investors are also betting inflation may cool enough for...