The tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite was the standout performer among the U.S. benchmarks, surging 160.75 points, a gain of 0.72 percent, to close at 22,631.48. The blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average joined the rally, adding 172.85 points, an increase of 0.37 percent, to settle at a new closing high of 46,315.27. The record close for the S&P 500, and the Dow, coupled with the NASDAQ's strong showing, points to continued confidence in growth-oriented stocks. The S&P/TSX Composite index surged 314.83 points, a robust gain of 1.07 percent, to close at 29,768.36. Continental European markets also saw modest selling pressure.