Market Opens Mixed Amid Trade Tensions

The US stock market experienced a mixed opening on Tuesday, reflecting the uncertainty among investors due to escalating trade tensions between the US and China. The US administration's recent imposition of a 10% tariff on Chinese imports has led Beijing to retaliate with counter-tariffs, set to take effect on February 10.

China's Response and Corporate Earnings in Focus

In response to the US actions, China has filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against the tariff hike and initiated a probe into Google. Additionally, there are reports suggesting Beijing might consider another probe against Intel. Investors are also keeping a close eye on corporate earnings reports.

Stock Performance Highlights

At 9:30 am ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average saw a slight drop, influenced by a significant tumble in Merck and Co Inc. shares. Conversely, the Nasdaq 100 experienced a modest gain, buoyed by a surge in Palantir Technologies Inc. shares. The S&P 500 remained flat, and the euro strengthened against the dollar.