Stocks Plunge in Worst Day Since March as Coronavirus Cases Rise

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down nearly 1,861.81 points, or 6.9%. The S&P 500 slid 5.9% Thursday and the Nasdaq fell 5.3%. It's the biggest decline for the three major averages since March 16, when they all fell more than 11% as it became obvious that the coronavirus would have dramatic effects on everyday life.

Markets have surged in recent weeks even in the face of dire economic markers as investors optimistically eyed phased economic reopenings nationwide. All 50 states had begun reopening nonessential businesses by the end of last month and stay-at-home orders across the country began to be lifted.