Hurricane closes New York Stock Exchange

375,000 people evacuated and transport systems shut down

a woman

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Dubbed the 'Frankenstorm', a massive hurricane is rapidly descending onto the east coast of the US, resulting in mandatory evacuations of 375,000 people in low-lying areas of New York City and the shutdown of public transport, including the subway.

Grocery stores have seen people lining up to stock up on emergency supplies, like tinned food, batteries, water and candles. Drug (chemist) stores and liquor retailers are apparently doing a roaring trade.

Hurricane Sandy is expected to collide with two other cold weather systems to create a giant super storm. Waves of up to 3 metres and extremely high winds are expected.

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will be closed tonight our time, and possibly tomorrow night, with the exchange stating that the safety of its employees must be its priority. All NYSE markets will be closed, including electronic trading, not just the floor trading operations. The Nasdaq stock market will also be closed on Monday.

In trading today, the All Ordinaries Index (Index: ^AXAO) (ASX: XAO) has ended fairly flat, while the S&P / ASX 200 Index (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) rose just 0.1%, but our market is likely to be without leads tomorrow, if the NYSE and Nasdaq are closed as planned.

Insurers with large US operations, such as QBE Insurance (ASX: QBE), will be closely watching the storm's progress and the damage it causes, and assessing the incoming claims. Other insurers like Insurance Australia Group (ASX: IAG) may also face some claims, as US insurers usually farm out some of their exposure to international insurance companies.

If you only invest in one company this year, make it our "Top Stock for 2012-13". Operating in two hot markets — one set to double by 2012, the other predicted to grow 5x over the next five years — this stock is a solid growth play that also boasts strong recurring revenue, zero debt, and lots of cash. Get its name and full research case in this brand-new FREE report.

More reading

Motley Fool writer/analyst Mike King owns shares in QBE. The Motley Fool's purpose is to help the world invest, better. Take Stock is The Motley Fool's free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Click here now to request your free subscription, whilst it's still available. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on ⏸️ Investing

Close up of baby looking puzzled
Retail Shares

What has happened to the Baby Bunting (ASX:BBN) share price this year?

It's been a volatile year so far for the Aussie nursery retailer. We take a closer look

Read more »

woman holds sign saying 'we need change' at climate change protest
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that invest in companies fighting climate change

If you want to shift some of your investments into more ethical companies, exchange-traded funds can offer a good option

Read more »

a jewellery store attendant stands at a cabinet displaying opulent necklaces and earrings featuring diamonds and precious stones.
⏸️ Investing

The Michael Hill (ASX: MHJ) share price poised for growth

Investors will be keeping an eye on the Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ) share price today. The keen interest…

Read more »

ASX shares buy unstoppable asx share price represented by man in superman cape pointing skyward
⏸️ Investing

The Atomos (ASX:AMS) share price is up 15% in a week

The Atomos (ASX: AMS) share price has surged 15% this week. Let's look at what's ahead as the company build…

Read more »

Two people in suits arm wrestle on a black and white chess board.
Retail Shares

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX:TPW) share price stack up against Nick Scali (ASX:NCK)?

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX: TPW) share price stack up against rival furniture retailer Nick Scali Limited (ASX:…

Read more »

A medical researcher works on a bichip, indicating share price movement in ASX tech companies
Healthcare Shares

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since its IPO

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since the Polynovo (ASX: PNV) competitor listed on the ASX in July.…

Read more »

asx investor daydreaming about US shares
⏸️ How to Invest

How to buy US shares from Australia right now

If you have been wondering how to buy US shares from Australia to gain exposure from the highly topical market,…

Read more »

⏸️ Investing

Why Fox (NASDAQ:FOX) might hurt News Corp (ASX:NWS) shareholders

News Corporation (ASX: NWS) might be facing some existential threats from its American cousins over the riots on 6 January

Read more »