The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed a slight improvement in the overall market sentiment, while the index remained in the “Fear” zone on Thursday. U.S. stocks settled lower on Thursday, following the release of economic reports. The U.S. economy grew an annualized 1.6% in the first quarter, marking a notable slowdown from the 3.4% rate in the final quarter of 2023. However, analysts were expecting a 2.5% growth. The core price index for personal consumption expenditures increased by an annualized 3.7% in the first quarter versus a 2% gain in the prior three-month period. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) reported better-than-expected first-quarter financial results and ...