Wall Street extended its relief rally Thursday, buoyed by President Trump’s hints at easing tariffs on China and backing off criticism of Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

The Dow rose 236 points by midday, with the S&P 500 up 1.2% and Nasdaq gaining 1.8%.

Markets were encouraged by signs Trump may soften his stance when markets react negatively.

Despite China’s denial of active trade talks, negotiations are ongoing with other nations.

Meanwhile, most Americans fear tariffs will raise prices, and the IMF projects slower U.S. growth but no recession, CBS News has reported.

Analysts expect tariffs to hurt earnings more than trigger a downturn.

Written by B.C. Begley