The Dow Jones Industrial Average crossed 40,000 for the first time ever and is on pace for its 19th record close as investors celebrate solid earnings and a slight easing of consumer inflation last month. It will mark the third 1,000 point milestone of 2024.

The Dow has gained about 6% this year and a strong quarter from the nation's largest retailer, Walmart, helped propel gains on Thursday. It closed above 30,000 on November 24, 2020. 

Goldman Sachs has added the most points since 30,000, while 3M Company has subtracted the most. 

Still, the 30 member index is still trailing the S&P 500 and tech-heavy Nasdaq which are also trading at new records. 

Both indices have risen about 11% as 77% of companies have exceeded profit estimates this season. 

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