---
title: "Tech Sector Drives Gains as Nasdaq Climbs 0.73%, IWM Up 0.75%"
canonical_url: https://www.stockexpertai.com/journal/2026-01-23/tech-sector-drives-gains-as-nasdaq-climbs-073-iwm-up-075
last_updated: 2026-01-23T06:06:46.662Z
section: "Market Pulse"
author: "Reese Nakamura"
publisher: Stock Expert AI
tickers: INTC
content_type: journal-article
---

# Tech Sector Drives Gains as Nasdaq Climbs 0.73%, IWM Up 0.75%

## The Take
- Diversify your portfolio with exposure to both tech and small-cap stocks to capture potential upside in a recovering market.

_Small caps and tech lead the way as markets react to easing geopolitical tensions._

The global macro picture is shifting. U.S. equities experienced a positive session, driven primarily by strength in the technology sector and a resurgence in small-cap interest. The Nasdaq Composite led the charge, gaining 0.73%, reflecting optimism around tech earnings and future growth prospects. The IWM, representing small-cap stocks, also performed well, rising 0.75% as Indian money managers signal renewed interest in the space.

Broader market indices also participated in the rally, though to a lesser extent. The SPY, tracking the S&P 500, advanced 0.52%, while the DIA, representing the Dow Jones Industrial Average, added 0.59%. This suggests a relatively broad-based market recovery, though with a clear tilt toward growth-oriented and smaller capitalization stocks. However, Intel (INTC) bucked the trend, posting a modest gain of 0.13% despite news of manufacturing challenges impacting its comeback efforts.

Crude oil prices experienced a sharp decline following indications of progress in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, easing geopolitical risk premiums. This development contributed to a generally positive market sentiment, as lower energy prices can alleviate inflationary pressures and boost consumer spending. Agricultural commodities presented a mixed picture, with corn futures rising while soybean prices remained relatively flat.

Macro regimes don't change overnight—but when they do, it matters.

## Related Tickers
- [INTC](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/intc)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Why did the Nasdaq and small-cap stocks perform well today?
The Nasdaq and IWM (small-cap stocks) saw gains due to strength in the technology sector and renewed interest in smaller companies. Optimism around tech earnings and easing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine, also contributed to the positive market sentiment.

### How did Intel (INTC) perform compared to the broader market?
While the overall market experienced a rally, Intel (INTC) posted a modest gain of 0.13%. This suggests that despite the positive market conditions, the company is still facing challenges, potentially related to its manufacturing efforts, which are impacting its comeback.

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_AI-generated under human editorial supervision. Educational research, not financial advice._