Closing Bell Movers: JB Hunt up 2% after Q1 earnings beat

New records highs in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite indices – along with a retreat in the Vix index to the lowest level since the start of the U.S.-Iran conflict – suggest that investors are looking through the geopolitical uncertainty.  Instead, with more large banks reporting constructive results, including Morgan Stanley’s (MS) Q1 beat this morning that sent the stock to all-time highs, the markets are positioning for further risk-on flows.  Tech was the standout sector on Wednesday, with beaten down Software names extending their strong performance this week, followed by Consumer Cyclicals and Communication Services, whereas Basic Materials and Industrials – areas of refuge throughout the AI disruption narrative – underperformed.

In the opening hour of the evening session, U.S. equity futures are flat, though WTI Crude Oil remains under pressure near $90.  FT report of a potential ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon – a sticking point in the U.S.-Iran negotiation process – is continuing the theme of de-escalation in the Middle East.

Check out this evening’s top movers from around Wall Street, compiled by The Fly.

HIGHER AFTER EARNINGS –

• J.B. Hunt (JBHT) up 1.8%

ALSO HIGHER –

• CareDx (CDNA) up 8.4% after Q1 pre-announcement, Lab Products divestment
• Voyager Technologies (VOYG) up 8.1% after NASA order announcement
• PPG Industries (PPG) up 5.0% after positive Q1 pre-announcement, price increase
• Euroseas (ESEA) up 2% after contract extension for EM Kea
• Conagra Brands (CAG) up 1.0% on insider buying activity

DOWN AFTER EARNINGS –

• MIND Technology (MIND) down 16.8%
• SL Green Realty (SLG) down 2.5%
• Home BancShares, Inc. (HOMB) down 1.4%

ALSO LOWER –

• QuidelOrtho (QDEL) down 18.9% after below-consensus Q1 pre-announcement
• Ford Motor (F) down 1% after departure of EV executive