Nasdaq Surges Over 1% as Investor Sentiment Improves

Greed Index Remains in 'Fear' Zone, Costco Wholesale Reports Earnings

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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US stocks rose on Wednesday, with the Nasdaq Composite gaining over 1% as traders weighed reports of potential US-Iran diplomatic talks. The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed some easing in the overall fear level, but remained in the 'Fear' zone. Earnings reports from Abercrombie & Fitch and Latham Group Inc. were also in focus.

Why it matters

The market's performance and investor sentiment are closely watched indicators of the overall economic climate. While the Nasdaq's surge suggests improving sentiment, the Fear and Greed index remaining in 'Fear' territory signals lingering uncertainty among investors.

The details

The Nasdaq Composite gained 1.29% on Wednesday, outperforming the Dow Jones and S&P 500. The rise was attributed to reports of potential US-Iran diplomatic talks. In earnings, Abercrombie & Fitch shares fell 4% after posting Q4 results, while Latham Group Inc. jumped 12% on better-than-expected Q4 earnings and FY26 guidance.

  • The CNN Money Fear and Greed index reading was 37.3 on Wednesday, versus a prior reading of 33.2.
  • U.S. private businesses added 63,000 jobs in February, the most since July.

The players

Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

A clothing and accessories retailer that reported Q4 earnings on Wednesday.

Latham Group Inc.

A manufacturer of residential swimming pools that reported better-than-expected Q4 results and issued FY26 sales guidance above estimates.

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The takeaway

While the Nasdaq's surge suggests improving investor sentiment, the Fear and Greed index remaining in 'Fear' territory indicates lingering uncertainty in the market. The performance of individual stocks like Abercrombie & Fitch and Latham Group provide further insight into the current economic climate.