The markets started the short week with a severe drop. News from North Korea, along with weakness in financials weighed on the markets. The Dow 30 was lower by 232, the S&P 500 lost 18, and the Nasdaq 100 lost 59. Tomorrow investors will be focused on the continued weakness along with manufacturing numbers and the Federal Reserves Beige Book. September is on record as being a weak month for markets. So far history seems to be repeating itself.
United Technologies (NYSE: UTX) was the largest loser in the Dow 30 today as shares sold off over 5%. News came out that UTX had officially reached a deal to buy Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) for $30 billion. This is the largest deal in the aerospace industry ever. The deal pays out $140 to shareholders in the form of stock and cash. The CEO of United Technologies said in a statement, "This acquisition adds tremendous capabilities to our aerospace businesses and strengthens our complementary offerings of technologically advanced aerospace systems." The report stated that the deal is expected to close by third quarter 2018. The move today sends shares almost back to break even on the year.
Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares sold off 1.20% today as analysts revealed that a survey showed iPhone users just weren't that excited about upgrading to the new iPhone 8. Interest has been waning in recent launches as consumers seem unwilling to spend the money to upgrade so soon. Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 8 at its event on September 8th. The new iPhone is rumored to include OLED display and wireless charging among other features.
Oracle (NASDAQ: ORCL) was one of the rare names to show green today as shares popped 0.55% on news of an upgrade. Credit Suisse initiated coverage and issued a price target of $62. The analyst at the firm believes that the market "under-appreciates" the potential of Oracle.