Corporate performance underscored the sector’s momentum, led by GE Aerospace, which lifted its full-year guidance following a robust second quarter of growth. This optimism mirrored gains at Insteel Industries, where higher shipment volumes and stronger pricing power drove revenue upward, and ManpowerGroup, which saw its shares rally after delivering a positive earnings outlook.

Strategic expansion remains a priority for major players, evidenced by two significant acquisitions aimed at cementing market dominance. Uber Technologies moved to secure its international position by acquiring Delivery Hero in a $14.8 billion deal. Simultaneously, ABB announced a $5.6 billion agreement to purchase the U.K.-based industrial equipment supplier Rotork, a move designed to bolster its automation capabilities.