Stocks finished higher on Monday after spending most of the session flipping between gains and losses. Unexpected tariff exemptions from President Trump boosted investor sentiment, with Big Tech enjoying a rally. Trump noted semiconductors, computers, and smartphones are among the products exempted from China's reciprocal tariffs, providing Apple (AAPL), Dell Technologies (DELL), and other tech giants that rely on the country's manufacturing some relief. In response, the Dow and Nasdaq added triple digits, while the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) extended Friday's losses.

GOLD PULLS BACK FROM FRESH RECORD

Oil prices inched higher after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) downwardly revised its demand growth output for the year. May-dated West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 12 cents to finish at $64.88 per barrel.

Gold pulled back from its earlier record peak, as sentiment eased regarding global trade war tensions. June-dated gold was last seen 0.6% lower at $3,226.30 an ounce for the session.

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