US indices end in red, Dow Jones drops 971 points

U.S. stocks ended lower in the first trading session of the week, as uncertainty loomed over the outlook for the world’s largest economy amid ongoing trade tensions. The decline came as President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.

Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.48%, or 971 points, to 38,170 points.

Similarly, S&P 500 Index fell 2.36% to 5,158 points. Nasdaq Composite plunged 2.55%, to 15,870 points.

Technology stocks suffered huge losses, dragging down Wall Street’s performance today. The Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF, which tracks the so-called "Magnificent Seven" tech giants, declined by 3.23% to close at $41.11.

European and UK stock markets were closed today celebrating the Easter holiday. Trading is scheduled to resume tomorrow.

In Japan, Nikkei 225 retreated 1.3% to 34,279 points. TOPIX slumped 1.2% to 2,528 points.

Brent crude futures for June delivery (the most active) decreased by 2.5%, or $1.70, to $66.26 a barrel at the close.

Meanwhile, US WTI crude futures for June delivery lost 2.5%, or $1.60, to $63.08 a barrel.

As for gold, June futures contracts added 2.9%, or $21.5, to $3,425.30 per ounce, after rising to an all-time high at $3433.90 per ounce during the session.