The Nasdaq is rising today primarily due to optimism about potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Recent economic data, particularly a cooling jobs market, has led investors to believe that the Fed might ease monetary policy to support the economy. This speculation has bolstered confidence in the market, particularly benefiting tech stocks, which are heavily represented in the Nasdaq index , additionally, strong performances from major tech companies are helping to lift the index. The combination of these factors has led to a positive outlook among investors, driving the Nasdaq higher.