Tech Surge Powers NASDAQ Higher While TSX Stumbles—Mixed Signals Present Tactical Opportunities

While the NASDAQ soared 1.22% on explosive tech gains led by Nvidia (+6.4%) and Tesla (+7.6%), the TSX shed 0.26% amid mounting trade tensions. This divergence creates unique positioning opportunities for tactical traders and strategic investors alike.

Key Developments:

  • NASDAQ Composite: +212.35 points to 17,648.45 (+1.22%)
  • S&P 500: +27.23 points to 5,578.03 (+0.49%)
  • TSX Composite: -62.44 points to 24,318.27 (-0.26%)
  • February inflation report showed slower price increases, easing monetary policy concerns

Sector/Topic Breakdown:

The technology sector dominated today's trading, with standout performances from Nvidia (+6.4%), Tesla (+7.6%), and Meta (+2.3%). Canadian mining stocks demonstrated resilience, with notable gains in Agnico Eagle and Barrick Gold, while the financial sector showed weakness with declines in major banks like RBC and TD Bank. Intel's after-hours surge of 10% following their CEO announcement signals potential momentum in the semiconductor space.

Strategic Playbook:

For short-term traders, consider pair trades focusing on long U.S. tech positions against short Canadian financials. Watch for continued momentum in Intel following the CEO announcement. Long-term investors should evaluate increasing exposure to U.S. tech leaders showing strong fundamental momentum while maintaining Canadian mining positions as potential inflation hedges.

Forward Outlook:

Key catalysts to monitor include tomorrow's weekly jobless claims data (forecast: 220K), Bank of Canada monetary policy implications, and ongoing trade tension developments. Risk factors include Trump's steel and aluminum tariffs impact on cross-border trade, with Canada's retaliatory measures creating additional market uncertainty. Technology sector valuations are reaching stretched levels, warranting careful position sizing.

Sources:

Data sourced from Trading Economics (trading-economics.com), NASDAQ.com, The Canadian Press, and Markets Insider. Market statistics and company-specific data verified through multiple financial data providers as of March 13, 2025, market close. All percentage changes and index values reflect official market data provided by respective exchanges.