The VIX enjoyed its highest close since July 11
The Dow dodged the history books today, falling short of a 14th win after turning in a triple-digit loss. The blue-chip index was up midday, but gave back its gains in the afternoon. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq also finished lower, the latter unable to gain ground even with a post-earnings pop from Meta Platforms (META). In what was probably a session of profit-taking, the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) closed at its highest level since July 11.
Continue reading for more on today's market, including:
- These 3 stocks scored new highs today.
- McDonald's stock near a key level once more.
- Plus, META earnings; inside a traders' selection process; and put debit spreads.


5 Things to Know Today
- Former Fed President sees another interest rate hike for 2023. (MarketWatch)
- China is trying to prop up its property market. (Bloomberg)
- More on the high-profile Meta earnings.
- Podcast: how do traders monitor stocks of interest?
- Entering put debit spreads is easier than you think.

Oil Moves Higher on Tightening Supply
Oil crossed the $80 threshold today, as global supplies continued to tighten. September-dated oil added $1.31, or 1.7%, to settle at $80.09 per barrel.
Gold took a breather today as upbeat economic data points to the U.S avoiding a recession. August-dated gold shed $24.40, or 1.2%, to settle at $1,945.70 an ounce.