22.06.201722:04:00UTC+00US Stocks Mixed as Nasdaq, Healthcare Shares Record Gains

US stocks traded mixed on Thursday, as Nasdaq recorded an advance for two straight days and the healthcare sector recorded firm gains.

The S&P 500 closed just below breakeven, standing at 2,434.5, down 0.05%, with healthcare gaining over 1% to lead advancers. Earlier, the healthcare-focused ETF touched an intraday record. But financials lost 0.6% on the Fed's yearly stress tests.

The Nasdaq Composite added 0.04%, to stand at 6,236.69. The Dow Jones relinquished early advances, ending at 21,397.29, down 0.06%.

This week, healthcare stocks have been on a tear as traders prepare for the unveiling of the US Senate's healthcare legislation aimed at removing and replacing Obamacare. Wall Street has been monitoring oil prices, seeking to regain following consecutive sell-offs.

Also, investors are anticipating the earnings period in the second quarter this year.