US stock market today: The Dow surged 272 points to hit a record 50,407 today. This gain came as retail sales stalled at 0.0%. Investors now expect lower interest rates. The S&P 500 slipped 0.09% and the Nasdaq fell 0.42%. Stagnant consumer spending shifted money into stable companies. This "soft landing" data fuels hope for a Fed pivot. Market eyes now turn to Wednesday's critical January jobs report for more direction.
