All Posts

Wall Street’s momentum paused on Thursday as hotter-than-expected wholesale inflation readings soured recent rate-cut optimism. Thursday’s session was indeed marked by shifting expectations for monetary policy and lingering inflation concerns, with the S&P 500 resilient at new highs even as Fed rate cut bets grew more cautious. Investors continue to navigate a crosscurrent of tariff headlines, earnings momentum, and macroeconomic surprises as the summer rally faces its first major test. The S&P 500 eked out a fractional gain, notching a new closing high at 6,468.27 (+0.03%). Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 19 points to close at 44,902.57 (-0.04%), and the Nasdaq Composite drifted down slightly to end at 21,711.34 (-0.01%). The Russell 2000 underperformed, reversing part of yesterday’s rally as traders rotated out of small-caps in response to renewed inflation fears.

Macroeconomic Reports

Thursday’s focus was the Producer Price Index (PPI) for July, which surged 0.9% month-over-month—the largest gain in three years, and well above expectations. The headline PPI reached +3.3% year-over-year, intensifying worries that upstream price pressures could soon hit consumers. Even the core PPI (excluding food, energy, and trade) jumped 0.6% month-over-month. Meanwhile, weekly jobless claims dropped by 3,000 to 224,000, maintaining a stretch of readings below 230,000, which suggests labor market resilience amid inflationary pressures. These reports have muddied the outlook for a September rate cut.

Federal Reserve, Yield Curve & Interest Rates

No new FOMC policy decisions were announced, but Federal Reserve officials maintained a cautious, data-driven approach. The hot PPI print weighed on bond markets, pushing Treasury yields higher and flattening the yield curve. Market pricing based on futures now sees around 57 basis points of total cuts remaining for the year, down sharply from earlier in the week, with a quarter-point cut in September still anticipated but less assured. Fed speakers noted conflicting signals for growth and inflation, warning that persistent service inflation, especially if linked to tariffs, could complicate the path to policy easing. The 2-yr closed rose to 3.7423% and the 10-yr rose to 4.29% today.

Tariff and Trade News

The White House recently extended the 90-day pause on China’s reciprocal tariffs, ensuring China-bound goods remain subject to only a 10% duty until at least November 10, 2025. New tariffs of 25% on certain Indian-origin products are scheduled for August 27, stacking atop existing tariffs. Recent customs rulings also clarified additional duties on gold bullion imports, impacting precious metals traders. The impact of tariffs continues to stoke sector rotation and strategic supply chain moves among blue-chip U.S. firms.

Corporate Headlines & Share Price Movements

NVIDIA (NVDA) shares rose to $182.02 (+0.26%) after securing exemptions for domestic production, allaying investors’ tariff fears and extending its AI-chip momentum.

Tesla (RSLA) shares closed at $335.58(-1.08%) after CEO Elon Musk highlighted next-gen Full Self-Driving advancements. Ongoing debate about the company’s innovation and tariff exposure persists, but AI leadership keeps investors enthusiastic.

Meta Platforms (META)consolidated at $782.13 (+.26%). After recent highs, the stock paused as investors processed both forward guidance and ongoing privacy debates.

McDonald’s (MCD) shares rose a solid 1.27% to $308.95, as a rebound in U.S. same-store sales gave the brand a lift, but analysts remained cautious on further valuation gains.

Oracle (ORCL) edged up .32% to $244.96. Though recent results showed double-digit growth and AI optimism, profit-taking set in after an active quarter.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR) fell 1.82% to close at $181.02.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO) dropped 1.65% to $62.52 after recently announcing a major investment in Australian bauxite, though earnings reflected ongoing tariff and commodity price headwinds.

Bullish (BLSH) IPO: The newly listed crypto exchange extended its wild debut, closing at $74.63 (+9.75%) after an IPO that more than doubled on launch. Enthusiasm for regulated digital asset exchanges remains robust as major institutional investors enter the sector.

Commodities & Cryptocurrencies Closing Prices

• Gold: Declined to $3,382.30/oz as hotter U.S. data lifted the dollar and yields, undercutting hopes for rapid rate cuts.
• Silver: Fell 1.47% to $38.035/oz.
• Crude Oil : jumped 2.04% to close at $63.93/bbl.
• Bitcoin: Traded ~118,395 today after hitting a new-all-time high of $124,090.

U.S. equities continued their record-setting momentum on Wednesday as confidence in a forthcoming Federal Reserve rate cut intensified. Indeed, Wednesday’s action showcased the market’s faith in a near-term Federal Reserve rate cut, with indices at historic highs and cyclicals leading the rebound. While tariffs and moderation in growth are in sharp focus, risk-taking remains underpinned by expectations of easier monetary policy and resilient corporate earnings.T he
S&P 500
rose 20.82 points, or 0.3%, to close at 6,466.58, marking a fresh all-time high. The
Dow Jones Industrial Average
surged 463.66 points, or 1.04%, finishing at 44,922.27 and leading the day’s performance among major indices. The
Nasdaq Composite
increased 31.24 points, or 0.14%, to 21,713.14, supported by resilient tech leadership. The
Russell 2000
posted a robust advance, gaining 45.28 points (1.98%) to settle at 2,228.06, reflecting renewed buying interest in small caps.

Macroeconomic Reports

This week’s July Consumer Price Index (CPI) report reflected a steady year-over-year increase of 2.7%, matching June’s rate and offering reassurance that inflation remains contained even amid heightened tariff activity. This benign inflation backdrop bolstered market expectations for a Fed rate cut as soon as next month. Meanwhile, labor data pointed to moderate softness: weekly jobless claims inched higher, but retail sales and industrial output held steady, sustaining optimism for continued economic expansion.

Federal Reserve, Yield Curve & Interest Rates

With the CPI confirming inflation’s subdued tone, traders now price in a near-certain 25 basis-point interest rate cut at the FOMC’s mid-September meeting. The yield curve flattened further as yields slid, particularly on the front end, signaling heightened anticipation for monetary easing. The 2-yr closed at 3.683% and the 10-yr closed at 4.245%. Atlanta Fed President Bostic cited the pressure mounting on consumers and businesses, while Chicago Fed President Goolsbee highlighted risks posed by tariffs to both employment and inflation, advocating careful policy calibration.

Tariff and Trade News

President Trump extended tariff suspensions with China for 90 days and announced a 100% tariff on semiconductor imports—though domestic manufacturers may receive exemptions if they increase U.S. production. Additional increases were signaled for Indian imports due to geopolitical developments. While these tariffs are beginning to register in select pricing data, their headline impact on inflation remains muted for now, helping risk sentiment.

Corporate Headlines & Share Price Movements

NVIDIA
retreated slightly following its recent string of record highs closing at $181.59, as some investors locked in gains after strong earnings and aggressive product launches. Despite the dip, the company retained investor confidence, fueled by robust AI demand and positive analyst commentary.

Tesla (TSLA) edged .43% lower closing at $339.38, reflecting durable optimism around its upcoming robotaxi rollout and ongoing advances in electric vehicle technology. High trading volumes suggest continued bullish sentiment.

Meta Platforms
(META) consolidated recent gains, finishing at $780.08, -1.26% as attention turned to upcoming AI initiatives and a growing data center footprint. Meta remains among the standout performers year-to-date thanks to its ability to weather short-term privacy headwinds.

McDonald’s
(MCD) moved in tandem with defensive sectors closing 1.14% higher at $305.07, seeing little price movement as investors rotated into cyclicals. Its value-driven menu strategy continues to resonate but produced no significant market headlines Wednesday.

Oracle (ORCL)
traded 3.81% lower closing at $244.18 as traders digested today’s report that they had cut jobs within the fast-growing cloud infrastructure business and recent earnings-driven volatility. Longer-term optimism around cloud and AI integration underpins ongoing institutional interest.

Palantir Technologies
(PLTR) closed 1.39% lower at $184.37. The stock’s S&P 500 inclusion is driving heightened activity, liquidity and volatility.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)
advanced modestly by .74% to close at $63.57, buoyed by a recovery in industrial metals prices. The group’s new investment in Australian bauxite indicates its commitment to long-term commodity leadership, though tariff exposure remains a watchpoint.

Mergers, Acquisitions & Buyouts

No significant S&P 500 M&A announcements or high-profile buyouts occurred Wednesday. Market participants remain alert for potential deals as companies adapt to shifting trade policy and monetary conditions.

IPO Activity (NYSE/Nasdaq)

Bullish Makes Blockbuster NYSE Debut

Bullish, the Peter Thiel-backed cryptocurrency exchange and owner of CoinDesk, delivered one of the most dramatic U.S. IPO debuts of the year on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Priced above range at $37 per share, the company raised $1.1 billion and commanded an initial market valuation of $5.4 billion. Demand was so robust that Bullish upsized its offering to 30 million shares from the originally planned 20.3 million, with underwriters (including JPMorgan, Jefferies, and Citigroup) holding an option to sell an additional 4.5 million shares over the next month.

The shares opened trading on the NYSE under ticker “BLSH” at $90, more than doubling the IPO price. Intraday, BLSH soared as high as $118 before settling back to close near $70—finishing its debut session up nearly 90% and granting the digital asset operator a market capitalization north of $10billion, at one point briefly exceeding $13billion. Trading was so intense that circuit breakers were triggered during the session.

The exceptional performance underscores Wall Street’s revived enthusiasm for regulated crypto platforms and has been fueled by a favorable U.S. regulatory climate under the Trump administration, as well as institutional interest. Indeed, major asset managers BlackRock and Ark Investment Management are reported to have shown strong interest in BLSH shares, targeting as much as $200million in aggregate investments.

Led by former NYSE President Tom Farley, Bullish targets sophisticated institutional clients, offering “mission-critical” digital asset trading and settlement services. Since launching in 2021, the exchange has processed more than $1.25trillion in trading volume and, with its public debut, joins the ranks of a select few publicly traded digital asset companies in the U.S. Bullish signals confidence in the long-term trajectory of centralized crypto exchanges and stablecoin markets, planning to deploy a large share of IPO proceeds into stablecoin development and broader blockchain adoption.

The success of the Bullish IPO further cements digital asset companies as major contenders on U.S. equity markets this year, following high-profile listings like Circle and Figma, and is likely to accelerate listing plans for peers such as Gemini and Grayscale.

Commodities & Cryptocurrencies Closing Prices

• Gold:
  Fell 0.04% to $3,407.10/oz.
• Silver:
  Declined 0.04% to $38.57/oz.
• Oil (WTI):
  Edged higher to $62.74/barrel.
• Bitcoin (BTC):
  Traded to another all-time high of $123,750 today.

Today’s action reflected a renewed risk-on mood for equity investors, with rate-cut hopes, strong index closes, and select corporate headlines capturing the spotlight as U.S. markets embrace cautious optimism headed into September. U.S. stocks surged to fresh record highs Tuesday after data showed inflation remained steady in July, rekindling hopes for a Federal Reserve rate cut in September. The S&P 500 climbed 1.1% to close at 6,445.76, a new all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.1%, ending at 44,458.61. The Nasdaq Composite rose 1.4%, finishing at 21,681.90—another historic close for the tech-heavy benchmark. The Russell 2000 index led gains among major indices, soaring 3% to settle at 2,282.78, reflecting renewed risk appetite and strong participation by small-cap stocks.

Macroeconomic Reports

July’s Consumer Price Index or the CPI confirmed inflation across the U.S. had held steady, marginally undercutting economists’ forecasts. This “tame” inflation data reassured markets and bolstered speculation of an imminent rate cut. The labor market still sends mixed signals, with prior months’ employment figures recently revised lower. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) ticked down as traders positioned for a potential monetary easing cycle.

Federal Reserve, Yield Curve & Interest Rates

The July inflation report increased bets that the Federal Reserve will cut rates in September. Treasury yields slid as short-term bonds rallied, reacting to the heightened prospects of monetary easing. The Fed’s official stance remains “wait and see,” keeping its benchmark rate steady and emphasizing data dependence amid persistent inflation somewhat above the 2% target. Markets now largely expect action next month if moderation in growth and employment persists. The 2-yr treasury closed lower ar 3.741% and the 10-yr closed at 4.30%.

Tariff and Trade News

President Trump’s tariffs, effective since August 7, remain central to global market dynamics. The White House’s sweeping measures affecting 69 trade partners—ranging from 10% to 39%—continue to fuel volatility and prompt companies to reassess global supply chains. Reportedly, tariffs have brought in a record $27.7B in July as President Trump calls the haul ‘incredible for our country’.

Corporate Headlines & Share Price Movements

NVIDIA (NVDA) extended its leadership in AI and accelerated computing. Shares moved upward to new all-time high of $183.76 and closed at $183.16, with continued enthusiasm following its recent product launches at SIGGRAPH and investor optimism in the new hardware cycle.

Tesla (TSLA) advanced as public roll-out of its autonomous robotaxi service approaches. The company’s focus on scaling up production before the expiration of the EV tax credit buoyed sentiment, and shares maintained their rally trajectory, closing at $340.84, +.53%.

Meta Platforms (META, $790.00) enjoyed a solid 3.15% advance, as investors shrugged off privacy headlines and focused on the company’s robust growth outlook and AI leadership. Options markets saw continued bullish positioning.

McDonald’s (MCD) closed at $301.64, -.89%, as strong U.S. same-store sales reversed prior weakness. The company’s value-oriented strategy is winning back customers, though analysts remain cautious over sector headwinds.

Oracle rose to $253.86. +.47% amid profit-taking after recent gains. Fiscal results revealed double-digit revenue growth powered by cloud and AI, keeping the company top-of-mind for institutional investors.

Palantir Technologies rose 2.35% to $186.97, notching a record revenue quarter and winning new high-profile government and commercial contracts. Analyst upgrades and robust AI-driven analytics are fueling momentum, even as occasional insider selling garners scrutiny.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO) closed at $63.10 (+1.54%). The miner announced a new investment in Australian bauxite mining recently, but continues to face earnings pressure from tariffs and soft commodity prices.

Mergers, Acquisitions & Buyouts

Cardinal Health (CAH, $146.30, -7.21%) announced the acquisition of Solaris Health for $1.9B deal to bolster its urology business, a deal that pressured its shares but signaled ambition within the healthcare space.

IPO Activity (NYSE/Nasdaq)

Three companies debuted on U.S. exchanges today:

• Highview Merger Corp (HVMC)—$10.00 initial price, closed at $10.01 (+0.10%).
• Magnitude International Ltd (MAGH)—$4.00 IPO price, closed at $4.06 (+1.50%).
• Mckinley Acquisition Corporation (MKLYU)—$10.00 IPO price, closed at $9.98 (-0.20%).

The robust pipeline continues to reflect market optimism, with 213 IPOs YTD, up 90% over last year.

Major Index Performance

U.S. equity markets retreated from last week’s record highs as traders braced for upcoming inflation data (CPI, Tuesday at 8:30am ET) and closely monitored developments in global trade relations. Indeed, the today’s session seemed to illustrate the market’s delicate balance between optimism for a September rate cut and caution over persistent inflation, labor market weakness, and geopolitics. Technology remained dominant but sector rotation, tariff noise, and macro uncertainty kept traders on edge as the week began.The S&P 500 closed at 6,374.32, down 16 points or 0.25%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined by 200.62 points, or 0.45%, finishing at 43,975.09. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite slipped 64.42 points, or 0.30%, to close at 21,385.40, though these indices remain near their historic peaks. The Russell index also posted slight losses down .09% and closing at 2,216.51, reflecting a rotation out of smaller-cap names as sector leadership shifted back toward large-cap technology and financials.

Macroeconomic Reports

Second-quarter GDP growth was reported at a respectable annualized rate of 3.0%, though underlying indicators reveal tepid consumer spending, subdued private investment, and persistent weakness in the housing market. The July jobs report undershot forecasts, with payroll gains of just 73,000 and prior months seeing sharp downward revisions. Unemployment edged up to 4.24%, adding fuel to speculation that the Federal Reserve may move toward an initial rate cut in September if labor conditions do not improve and tariff-driven price pressures persist. July’s PMI data signaled some momentum in services, while manufacturing continues to lag.

Federal Reserve, Yield Curve & Interest Rates

Despite recent volatility, market consensus expects the Fed to ease rates later this year, potentially as soon as September. Bond prices moved higher and yields compressed today, as investors positioned ahead of the consumer inflation print due tomorrow. The yield curve continues to hold a shallow inversion, reflecting ongoing policy uncertainty and tariff impacts on longer-term growth. The 2-yr closed at 3.783% and the 10-yr closed at 4.289%.

Tariff and Trade News

President Trump’s sweeping reciprocal tariffs—effective since August 7—remain front and center. The administration’s aggressive stance, echoed in a warning on Truth Social about potential 1929-style market consequences, has heightened volatility. Technology stocks benefited from efforts to onshore production and dodge higher tariffs, but supply chain anxieties linger.

Corporate Headlines & Share Price Movements

NVIDIA ($182.06, -.37%) set the tone, unveiling new physical AI and accelerated computing products at SIGGRAPH 2025. While today’s session saw pressure on semiconductor stocks amid renewed concerns over export controls to China, NVIDIA’s partnerships with top gaming studios remain an area of strategic strength.

Tesla (TSLA) extended its rally, closing up 2.84% at $339.03. Investors cheered a surge in Model Y demand ahead of September’s EV tax credit expiration, and CEO Elon Musk confirmed public robotaxi availability beginning next month. Tesla’s ongoing focus on autonomous driving and expanding production keeps it a core growth story despite political headwinds.

Meta Platforms (META) saw modest pressure, finishing down 0.45% at $765.87. Options market activity turned bullish, though RSI readings suggest near-term overbought conditions. News emerged of privacy concerns linked to contractors accessing user data for AI model training, reigniting broader debates about Meta’s governance.

McDonald’s (MCD, $304.36, -.36%) did not dominate headlines today, and traded nearly flat, reflecting limited sector news flow in the face of broader consumer discretionary softness.

Oracle (ORCL) rose 1.05% to close at $252.68 as investors continue to monitor its multi-cloud and AI integration initiatives.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR, $182.68, -2.29%) pulled back today after recently gaining 21% in the wake of robust software demand and new government contracts, outperforming peer tech names and helping to lift the broader Nasdaq.

Rio Tinto Group saw muted movement, but rose .45% to close at $62.14 as investors digested stabilization in metals markets and looked for clarity on the impact of tariffs on global mining operations.

Commodities & Cryptocurrency

• Gold: Gold prices closed at $3,393.70/ounce, -.32%.
• Silver: Silver closed at $37.65 and is up 27.08% YTD.
• Oil: Crude Oil prices rose .06% to $64/bbl over.
• Bitcoin (BTC): Bitcoin rallied to an all-time high of $122,955 today and is trading at $119,230 currently up 1.95%.

The first full week of August saw U.S. equities rebound impressively from early summer volatility, powered by robust tech leadership, firmer consumer data, and continued speculation about central bank and tariff policies. Indeed, the equity markets closed out the week on a strong note, with technology and consumer strength outweighing macroeconomic jitters, tariff anxiety, and short-term employment data concerns. As central bank policy remains a pivotal theme and the impact of fresh tariffs lingers, investors will remain focused on upcoming inflation readings and Fed signals to gauge the sustainability of the summer rally.

Index Performance

All major indices posted gains, extending the market’s bullish momentum:

• The S&P 500 advanced 2.4% for the week, closing at 6,389.45, nearly erasing last week’s losses and finishing just shy of a record high.
• The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.3% to end at 44,175.61, as investors rotated back into blue-chip names following a brief period of weakness.
• The Nasdaq Composite reached a new record, surging 3.9% to 21,450.02, driven by outsized gains in technology stocks and renewed optimism in artificial intelligence.
• The Russell 2000 managed a rise too, gaining 2.4% to 2,218.42, suggesting continued, albeit cautious, appetite for small-cap exposure.

Macroeconomic Reports

• Labor Market: Weekly jobless claims rose by 8,000, while continuing claims moved higher by 38,000, stirring some concern about employment softness but not enough to shake investor confidence.
• Retail Sales: July retail sales rose 0.5% month-over-month, maintaining solid momentum after a stronger 0.6% gain in June, pointing to resilient consumer spending.
• Inflation: Preliminary inflation data for July suggested a 2.8% year-over-year increase in CPI, in line with market expectations. Tariff-linked price pressures persisted in select goods but remained contained at the headline level.

Major Stock and Sector News

• NVIDIA (NVDA): NVIDIA continued its ascent closing at $182.70, +5.17% over the past 5-days, finishing the week above critical resistance at $179.82. A close above this level signals additional upside, with $219.64 seen as a medium-term technical target. Strong AI demand and a channel breakout reinforced bullish sentiment for the stock.youtube
• Tesla (TSLA): Tesla showed resilience through choppy trade, ending near $329.65—up 3.21% on Friday following a series of technical rallies and +8.93% over the last 5-days. High trading volumes and continued strength in EV and battery developments point toward sustained momentum, despite tariff uncertainties and volatile incentive environments.
• Meta Platforms (META): Meta traded in a narrow, positive range, closing at $769.30 on Friday, but was up 2.57% over the last 5-days. Despite a midweek dip, Meta’s ongoing focus on AI investments and data center expansion supported investor interest; year-to-date, the stock is up over 30%.
• McDonald’s (MCD): McDonald’s tracked broader market movements without significant headlines. Defensive sector rotation provided support on risk-off days. Shares closed up .85% over the last 5-days.
• Rio Tinto Group (RIO): Rio Tinto moved 3.70% higher over the last 5-days to close at $61.86, reflecting a rebound in industrial metals pricing after last week’s earnings-driven selloff.
• Palantir Technologies (PLTR): Palantir extended its impressive rally, with strength in government and commercial AI contracts boosting sentiment and share price closing up 2.61% over the last 5-days at $186.96.

Corporate Events: Mergers, Acquisitions, & IPOs

• M&A: S&P 500 constituents saw limited merger activity. The broader market’s attention focused on ongoing reviews and anticipated regulatory outcomes of prior announcements.
• IPOs: NYSE and Nasdaq IPO activity continued, highlighted by Figma’s (FIG) blockbuster debut last week, however FIG shares pulled back 35.98% this week. This week saw several smaller IPOs complete first trading sessions with mixed results as investors balanced valuation concerns with momentum.

Tariffs & Trade Policy

• Tariffs: The week was punctuated by continued uncertainty after President Trump’s newest round of tariffs, including a focus on semiconductor imports. While some companies reported profit headwinds, the net effect on consumer spending appeared muted for now, and corporate guidance reflected resilient supply chain strategies.

Federal Reserve, Interest Rates, and Yield Curve

• Fed Policy: The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark rate, and no FOMC meeting was held this week; the next rate decision is anticipated in late August. Commentary suggests policymakers remain watchful for potential inflation upticks stemming from new tariffs.
• Yield Curve: The curve remained slightly inverted, with overnight rates normalizing after month-end spikes. SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate) rose briefly at the start of August, then subsided as liquidity returned to normal levels. The 2-Yr treasury closed at 3.769% and the 10-Yr closed at 4.286%.

Commodities & Cryptocurrency

• Gold: Gold prices hit a record high, closing at $3,458.20/ounce up 2.48% for the last 5-days, propelled by safe-haven flows and ongoing trade concerns.
• Silver: Silver advanced further, reflecting industrial demand and its role as an inflation hedge closing at $38.51 and is up 30% YTD.
• Oil: Crude Oil prices declined 4.44% to $63.35/bbl over the last 5-days on renewed hopes of a Russia deal and stabilization in global output.
• Bitcoin (BTC): Bitcoin rallied through the week and is trading in the 117,425 range, mirroring tech sector strength and risk-on sentiment.

Wall Street endured a volatile session as major indices oscillated between cautious optimism and persistent headline risk, finally closing with mixed results. Investors balanced tariff updates, fresh macroeconomic readings, and a flurry of corporate news as the market digested the implications of a changing global trade environment.

S&P 500, Dow 30, Nasdaq, and Russell Index Performance

The S&P 500 slipped 0.08%—closing at 6,340.00—after erasing early session gains, with profit-taking visible in technology and consumer sectors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.51% to end at 43,968.64, weighed by weakness in cyclical industry leaders. The Nasdaq Composite hovered near unchanged, but still rose 0.35% at 21,242.70, as chipmaker outperformance balanced out softness in broader growth names. By contrast, the Russell 2000 endured another lackluster day, trailing as small-cap risk appetite remained muted amid sector rotation and macro uncertainty closing at 2,214.72, -.30%.

Key Macroeconomic Reports

Thursday’s macro calendar brought mixed signals. While U.S. jobless claims remained stable, the Commerce Department reported a fresh uptick in inflation for June, driven in part by newly enacted tariffs. Consumer and business sentiment showed resilience as the GDP continued a strong Q2 rebound at a 3.0% annualized pace, reflecting broad-based consumption even as labor market growth cooled. International trade data revealed a narrowing deficit which allayed some growth concerns, though export demand was tempered by global policy uncertainty.

Tariffs and Trade Policy Updates

Markets fixated on trade headlines as the U.S. rolled out its most formidable wave of “reciprocal tariffs” to date, including a new proposed 100% duty on imported semiconductors. Nevertheless, stocks in the chip sector (notably those with domestic production) rallied after news that many would receive exemptions. President Trump’s announcement of steeper import levies triggered volatility, but investor relief at company-specific carveouts helped moderate losses for the sector.

Yield Curve and Interest Rate Movements

Treasury yields remained little changed as investors weighed mixed inflation signals and continued to price in a roughly even probability of a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting. The 2-year note yield closed at 7.36%% & the 10-yr closed at 4.259%. Credit conditions remain supportive, though caution prevails as policymakers stress their data dependence on forthcoming labor and inflation indicators.

FOMC Announcements

The Federal Reserve issued no new policy decisions Thursday. Central bank officials reiterated a patient, data-driven approach, acknowledging greater flexibility for a potential rate cut in September if economic softness deepens and tariff-related cost pressures ease.

Sector and Stock Highlights

NVIDIA (NVDA)

NVIDIA outperformed its mega-cap tech peers closing at $180.77, +.75% as renewed clarity on semiconductor tariffs reassured investors. With domestic production plans qualifying the firm for duty exemptions, NVDA shares traded higher, buoyed by ongoing strength in AI chip demand and recent technical breakouts. Analysts highlighted the company’s resilient positioning and accelerating product cycles as drivers of positive sentiment.

Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla shares advanced closing at $322.27, +.74% after CEO Elon Musk confirmed development of a next-generation Full Self-Driving model “with ten times the parameters” and major enhancements in AI capability. The company remains a center of market debate on both innovation and tariff exposure, but today’s update reaffirmed Tesla’s prowess in autonomous technology and bolstered investor conviction in its longer-term trajectory.

Meta Platforms (META)

Meta Platforms closed at $761.83, -1.32% & consolidated near record highs following its blowout Q2 earnings. Despite the sector’s intraday volatility, Meta’s forward guidance and AI expansion underpin a bullish stance, with analysts forecasting revenue momentum to persist through Q3. Management’s updated revenue projections—above prior street estimates—continue to inspire confidence among institutional investors.

McDonald’s (MCD)

McDonald’s shares rose slightly +.08% to close at $307.91 fueled by a turnaround in U.S. same-store sales. Management’s value-first strategy reversed a recent domestic sales slump, with global comps and revenue both topping expectations. Analysts, however, cite muted prospects for multiple expansion as a reason for near-term caution, highlighting competitive headwinds and a still-soft low-income consumer backdrop.

Oracle (ORCL)

Oracle shares fell 2.75% to close at $249.39. Fiscal 2025 results revealed double-digit revenue growth, with major upside from cloud infrastructure and multi-cloud offerings. Wall Street continues to endorse Oracle’s growth trajectory, eyeing a robust pipeline in both commercial and public sector AI contracts.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

Palantir climbed 1.48% to close at $182.20 after an analyst upgrade from Goldman Sachs, which increased their price target amidst a backdrop of rising government and commercial contract wins. The company reported a record $1 billion revenue quarter, up 48% year-over-year, and is lauded for its execution in AI-driven analytics. Ongoing insider selling received attention but was largely seen as routine profit-taking.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)

Rio Tinto ($60.77, +1.13%) announced a A$180 million investment in the Norman Creek bauxite mine access project. Although management continued to stress operational discipline and capital allocation, the miner reported a 22% decline in first-half net income, with tariffs and weaker commodities prices weighing on margins. Even so, RIO ended little changed as the new project’s long-term potential helped offset earnings pressure.

Commodities and Digital Assets

• Gold edged 1.44% higher closing at $3,482.70 as a defensive play amid tariff and growth uncertainty.
• Silver closed 1.66% up for the session at $38.53. The iShares Silver trust (SLV) closed at $34.76, +1.19 and is up +34.76% YTD.
• Crude Oil prices fell .82% to close at $63.82/bbl as investors weighed persistent geopolitical risk against softening global growth prospects.
• Bitcoin rose 1.98% to close near $117,980, as ongoing institutional adoption offered support even amid market choppiness.

Wall Street rebounded in midweek trading as all major indices—except for small caps—posted gains, reflecting renewed enthusiasm for technology and consumer stocks. Investors digested a round of strong corporate earnings and closely tracked macroeconomic updates, while trade and central bank developments remained in focus.

S&P 500, Dow 30, Nasdaq, and Russell Index Performance

The S&P 500 advanced 0.73% to close at 6,345.06, with broad leadership from both core and growth names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 81.38 points, or 0.18%, to finish at 44,193.12. Technology stocks propelled the Nasdaq Composite 1.21% higher to 21,169.42, highlighting robust gains among leading AI and software firms. Helping boost moods widely, influential tech giant Apple (AAPL, $213.25, +5.09%) announced plans to invest an additional $100B in US manufacturing commitments during a press event at the White House with President Trump on Wednesday. The move follows Apple’s prior $500B investment in US spending, which includes working with partners to build an AI server plant in Texas. In contrast, the Russell 2000 fell 0.2% to 2,221.29, extending its recent relative underperformance as small caps trailed large- and mega-cap peers.

Key Macroeconomic Reports

Economic releases on Wednesday highlighted mixed trends. Recent data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis showed U.S. personal income and consumer spending both up 0.3% in June, indicating steady but moderate momentum entering the back half of summer. The U.S. trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion, an improvement from May, driven by a slower drop in exports compared to imports. The latest GDP figures confirmed a 3.0% annualized increase for Q2, a sharp rebound after contracting in Q1, fueled by resurgent consumer activity and inventory restocking. These readings underscored continued resilience in the economy, despite ongoing labor and inflation concerns.

Tariffs and Trade Policy Updates

Tariff rhetoric stayed prominent on Wednesday. The U.S. maintained its recent “reciprocal tariffs,” affecting key partners in Asia and the Americas. Negotiations with the EU remain constructive, thereby preserving a preferential 15% tariff rate for most European goods, while discussions with Canada and Mexico are ongoing. Broadly, global trade policy remains a source of volatility, impacting sectoral performance and guiding multinationals’ operations.

Yield Curve and Interest Rate Movements

Treasury yields saw little movement as traders weighed prospects for Federal Reserve action at the September meeting. The 2-year Treasury edged lower to 3.72%, and the 10-year closed up at 4.232%. Investor sentiment reflected a delicate balance between cooling growth signals and hopes for policy support later in the year.

FOMC Announcements

No new policy decisions were announced by the Federal Reserve today. However, officials continued to emphasize a data-dependent stance, reiterating that any further softening in economic indicators could prompt an earlier-than-expected rate cut. The conclusion of the next FOMC meeting is expected to clarify the central bank’s approach toward inflation and labor market trends.

Sector and Stock Highlights

NVIDIA (NVDA)

NVIDIA climbed .65% to close at $179.42 as large-cap technology shares led market gains. Renewed investor optimism about AI chip sales and robust recent earnings—widely regarded as a bellwether for the sector—kept NVDA shares near all-time highs. The company remains the premier beneficiary of the accelerating global shift to artificial intelligence, with analysts reiterating their bullish outlook amid ongoing product launches.

Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla saw volatility to the upside gaining 3.62% and closing at $319.91, as investors weighed margin concerns against continued innovation in both EVs and AI-related initiatives. The company’s efforts to diversify its global supply chain and strengthen partnerships outside China remained in focus, keeping enthusiasm alive even against a challenging competitive environment.

Meta Platforms (META)

Meta shares rose another 1.12% to close at record $771.99 after the recent blockbuster Q2 earnings release. The company’s revenue jumped 22% year-over-year to $47.52 billion, and profit climbed 38% to $7.14 per share, both beating expectations by a wide margin. Meta cited accelerated AI adoption and robust user growth as key drivers, with management also raising its capital spending outlook for continued investment in generative AI leadership.

McDonald’s (MCD)

McDonald’s advanced nearly 3% following a robust earnings beat for the second quarter to close at $307.66. Adjusted earnings of $3.19 per share and revenue growth of 5% exceeded analyst estimates. Improved profit margins, global same-store sales gains, and better-than-expected international performance drove the rally, despite management withholding explicit guidance for the rest of the year.

Oracle (ORCL)

Oracle continued its ascent closing at $256.43 after TD Cowen raised its price target to $325 and maintained a Buy rating, citing strong outlooks for cloud and AI solutions. Recent contract wins and continued demand for enterprise AI have positioned Oracle as a leader in the software sector, though some analysts see potential for moderation following a strong run-up.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

Palantir sustained its momentum after surging to record highs this week, buoyed by a 5% premarket jump on the back of another raised full-year revenue forecast. Shares closed at $179.54, +3.62%. Quarterly results delivered over $1 billion in revenue and surging demand for AI-powered analytics platforms. Analysts praised Palantir for capitalizing on heightened government and corporate demand, with major price target upgrades reflecting expectations for continued rapid growth.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)

Rio Tinto traded essentially flat, but still up at $60.09, +.65% as investors weighed subdued iron ore and base metals prices against disciplined capital allocation and strengthening positions in high-margin metals segments. Management’s focus on operational excellence and long-term shareholder returns tempered the impact of a softer commodity cycle.

Commodities and Digital Assets

• Gold edged .08% lower closing at $3,431.80as a defensive play amid tariff and growth uncertainty.
• Silver closed .30% up for the session at $37.935. The iShares Silver trust (SLV) closed at $34.35, flat on the day and is up +30.46% YTD.
• Crude Oil prices fell 1.37% to close at $64.27/bbl as investors weighed persistent geopolitical risk against softening global growth prospects.
• Bitcoin rose 1.31% to close near $115,650, as ongoing institutional adoption offered support even amid market choppiness.

The Large Cap stocks retreated today as investors digested fresh macroeconomic signals, profit-taking in tech, and renewed tariff anxieties. After starting the week on a strong note, the major indices slipped, led by declines in growth stocks and cautious sentiment ahead of key policy commentary.

S&P 500, Dow 30, Nasdaq, and Russell Index Performance

The S&P 500 fell 0.49% to close at 6,299.19, snapping Monday’s rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.14% to 44,111.74, with blue chips on the index faring somewhat better amid renewed defensiveness. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite underperformed, dropping 0.65% to 20,916.55 as investors rotated out of high flyers. In contrast, the Russell 2000 rose 0.6% to 2,225.67, standing out on small-cap resilience. the iShares Russell 200 ETF (IWM) rose .51% to close at $220.85, but remains down .05% YTD.

Key Macroeconomic Reports

New data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis revealed that U.S. personal income and consumer spending both increased 0.3% in June, underscoring solid but unspectacular demand heading into the summer. The overall trade deficit narrowed to $60.2 billion in June as exports fell less than imports, an improvement after several months of widening shortfalls. Growth concerns linger following the weaker payrolls report late last week, leaving investors sensitive to any signs of cooling momentum.

Tariffs and Trade Policy Updates

Markets refocused on tariffs, with the U.S. implementing “reciprocal tariffs” that raised levies on many global partners, with new rates as high as 41%. Negotiations with the EU remain constructive, and most EU goods will continue to carry a 15% tariff for now, but ongoing uncertainty in talks with Mexico, Canada, and China continued to cloud the outlook for major exporters. The trade environment remains a swing factor for multinationals.

Yield Curve and Interest Rate Movements

The yield curve lifted today as 2-year note closed at 3.739% and the 10-year closed at 4.21%. Traders are split over whether the Fed may cut rates as soon as September, with recent labor and inflation data feeding the dovish narrative.

FOMC Announcements

There were no new rate decisions from the Federal Reserve today. However, policymakers reiterated their data dependence, noting that any further softening in jobs or growth may warrant a policy response. The next scheduled FOMC decision is highly anticipated, with odds for a rate cut rising in recent sessions.

Sector and Stock Highlights

NVIDIA (NVDA)

NVIDIA shares retreated .97% to close at $178.26, reflecting the risk-off mood and sector rotation out of large-cap growth. Despite robust fundamentals—AI chip demand, sustained high margins, and continued leadership in generative AI—the valuation remains a topic of debate among both institutional and retail investors.

Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla stock was volatile, with a slight downward bias as it dropped .17% to close at $308.72 after yesterday’s rebound and as margin concerns and weaker Q2 sales lingered. Analysts flag persistent brand and competitive risks, especially in Europe, and warn that much-hyped future growth in AI and energy may not be enough to offset core auto headwinds in the near term.

Meta Platforms (META)

Meta platforms remain buoyant in the wake of last week’s blockbuster Q2 earnings. The share price traded firmly but pulled back 1.66% to close at $763.46, and which has been buoyed by a surge in investor confidence and strong AI integration narrative. The company’s ambitious expansion into wearables and AI-driven features continues to attract bullish sentiment, with analysts eyeing the $1,000 price target.

McDonald’s (MCD)

McDonald’s fell 1.79% today amid cautious optimism ahead of its imminent earnings release. Analysts are split, citing positive signals from value pricing and menu innovation, but flagging soft U.S. traffic and macro challenges. Technical indicators suggest the stock may be entering a phase of consolidation.

Oracle (ORCL)

Oracle shares added another 1.24% to close at $255.67. The company was buoyed by strong analyst ratings and robust metrics in cloud and AI, offsetting some technical concerns. The stock’s strength reflected conviction in the firm’s AI, data center expansion, and resilient enterprise software demand, despite heightened sector competition.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

Palantir shares topped the S&P 500 leaderboard after a blowout quarterly report rising a meaty 7.85% to close at $173.27. The company posted its first $1 billion revenue quarter (up 48% year-on-year) and set aggressive new guidance for future growth. Palantir’s gains were propelled by surging AI contract momentum, particularly with U.S. government and commercial customers, making it the best-performing name in the S&P 500 so far this year.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)

Rio Tinto shares traded largely flat as investors continued to absorb last week’s earnings and commodity price action closing at $59,70, -.50% . While near-term profitability is pressured by soft minerals pricing, disciplined capital allocation and a focus on high-value metals projects remain in focus.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)

Xometry, Inc. (NASDAQ: XMTR), the global AI-powered marketplace connecting buyers with suppliers of manufacturing services, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

“We delivered strong performance across the board this quarter,” said Randy Altschuler, CEO at Xometry. “The record results reflect investments we’ve made in platform innovation, enterprise initiatives and network expansion – key drivers that position Xometry for sustainable, long-term growth. We expect continued growth momentum as we gain share in our large fragmented market.”

Commodities and Digital Assets

• Gold edged .25% higher closing at $3,435.00 as a defensive play amid tariff and growth uncertainty.
• Silver tracked gold and closed 1.36% up for the session at $37.835. the iShares Silver trust (SLV) closed at $34.35, +1.09% and is up +30.46% YTD.
• Crude Oil prices fell 1.69% to close at $65.17/bbl as investors weighed persistent geopolitical risk against softening global growth prospects.
• Bitcoin fell .90% to close near $114,245, as ongoing institutional adoption offered support even amid market choppiness.

Wall Street staged an emphatic recovery to kick off August’s first full week, with equities surging after Friday’s selloff as investors bet that disappointing labor data would drive a softer approach from the Federal Reserve in the coming months. Optimism over a potential rate cut, improving earnings sentiment, and evolving tariff developments helped reverse much of last week’s losses.

S&P 500, Dow 30, Nasdaq, and Russell Index Performance

The S&P 500 rose 1.47% for its best session in months, closing at 6,329.94, as investors flocked to both cyclical and technology names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rallied 1.34%, jumping more than 500 points to finish at 44,173.64 after recouping most of Friday’s tumble. The Nasdaq Composite also delivered its best day since May, gaining over 1.95% (21,053.58) with renewed strength in the tech sector. Meanwhile, the Russell 2000 advanced an impressive 2.10%, signaling robust buying appetite in the small-cap space as risk appetite showed renewed vigor.

Key Macroeconomic Reports

Economic momentum remains a concern. The July jobs report published Friday came in well below expectations, with nonfarm payrolls rising by just 73,000 (vs. consensus 104,000) and previous months’ gains revised sharply lower. The unemployment rate climbed to 4.24% and labor participation ticked down, despite modest 0.3% monthly and 3.9% annual wage gains. While consumer spending grew 0.5%, underlying momentum was modest and private investment spiked due to pre-tariff inventory stockpiling. The data reinforced the market’s expectations for a potential Fed rate cut as soon as September if softness persists, even as policymakers remain wary of ongoing tariff-related inflation pressures.

Tariffs and Trade Policy Updates

Trade headlines continued to roil markets. President Trump issued a new executive order for “reciprocal tariffs,” raising levies on dozens of global partners, with rates ranging from 10% to as high as 41%. However, a standout deal with the European Union delayed EU retaliatory tariffs for at least six months; most EU goods will be subject to a 15% U.S. tariff. Negotiations with Mexico, Canada, and China remain unresolved, creating rolling uncertainty for major exporters and global supply chains.

Yield Curve and Interest Rate Movements

Treasury yields held relatively steady—the 2-year Treasury yield ended the session near 3.685% and the 10-year closed at 4,197. The yield curve remained flat following last week’s risk-off move, and market odds now slightly favor a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting, contingent upon labor and inflation data.

FOMC Announcements

No new FOMC decisions were issued. Nonetheless, remarks from several Fed officials highlighted greater openness to policy easing should job market weakness continue and tariff-driven inflation not accelerate. The central bank reiterated its commitment to being data dependent as the next rate decision approaches.

Sector and Stock Highlights

NVIDIA (NVDA)

NVIDIA posted a strong advance closing at $180.00, +3.62%, riding a fresh wave of enthusiasm for AI chips as sector rotation returned to large-cap growth. Ongoing robust demand, recent product launches, and growing international partnerships all contributed to placing NVDA back near its all-time highs.

Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla rebounded almost 2.19% to close at $309.26 after last week’s downward volatility, with sentiment boosted by continuing efforts to diversify its supply chain and manage tariff exposure. The electric vehicle giant remains a focal point as negotiations with key battery suppliers and ongoing production ramp-ups in North America proceed.

Meta Platforms (META)

Meta continued its post-earnings momentum, jumping over 3.51% to close at $776.37 following last week’s robust Q2 report. The company’s outsized investments in AI and strong user growth have reassured investors, with shares recapturing highs not seen since the spring.

McDonald’s (MCD)

McDonald’s edged moderately higher +.44% to close at $304.23 as defensive names retained a bid following last week’s market whipsaw. Analysts point to the company’s resilient cash flow and solid global franchise network as key factors supporting valuation stability through macro turbulence.

Oracle (ORCL)

Oracle continued a slow upward climb rising a sizable + 3.32% closing at 252.53 after a series of contract announcements in the enterprise and public cloud segments. While trading remained within a recent range, positive sentiment around upcoming earnings and AI-driven expansion provided a tailwind.

Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

Palantir built on recent gains rising a meaty 4.14% closing at $160.66, as investors looked ahead to its Q2 earnings release later this week. Ongoing momentum in government and commercial contracts and expectations for strong AI product adoption kept shares in favor among growth-focused funds.

Rio Tinto Group (RIO)

Rio Tinto stabilized after its earnings-related drop closing up .59% at $60, with investors digesting lower commodity prices and a modest cut in the half-year dividend. The company’s disciplined approach to capex and focus on higher-margin metals projects has helped blunt some of the global macro headwinds.

Acquisitions, Mergers, and IPO News

No major S&P 500 acquisitions, high-profile mergers, or significant buyouts were announced Monday. On the IPO calendar, Picard Medical, Inc. (PMI) made its NYSE American debut today, pricing at $4.25 and closing well above its offer price after strong demand for life sciences names. Other significant IPOs are set to follow later this week.

Commodities and Digital Assets

• Gold edged .85% higher closing at $3,428.60 as a defensive play amid tariff and growth uncertainty.
• Silver tracked gold and closed 1.40% up for the session at $37.445.
• Crude Oil prices fell 1.62% to close at $66.24/bbl as investors weighed persistent geopolitical risk against softening global growth prospects.
• Bitcoin gained 1.54% to close near $115,315, as ongoing institutional adoption offered support even amid market choppiness.

As July closed and the dog days of summer arrived, U.S. equities faced a sharp reversal, punctuating several weeks of bullish momentum with a sobering dose of volatility—a direct consequence of new trade tensions and discouraging labor market reports.

Index Performance

All four major U.S. indices registered notable weekly losses as investor confidence wavered in the face of sweeping new tariff announcements and softer-than-anticipated economic data:

• The S&P 500 slumped 2.4%, closing at 6,287.28 on Friday, enduring its steepest single-day drop since May
• The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 2.9%, down 1,313 points for the week, with cyclical sectors under particular pressure.
• The Nasdaq Composite—often resilient thanks to large cap tech—fell 2.2% to 20,650.13, led lower by a pullback in high-flying growth names.
• The Russell 2000 tracked its large-cap peers, posting a similar loss as heightened risk aversion pushed investors out of more speculative corners of the market.

Macroeconomic Reports

Weekly data reflected mounting economic challenges:

• Employment: July’s nonfarm payrolls increased by only 73,000—far below expectations and the weakest reading in over two years. Previous months were revised sharply downward. The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.2%, amplifying market anxiety about a potential slowdown in hiring and economic growth.
• Federal Reserve Policy: The Fed left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 4.25%-4.5% for the fifth consecutive meeting, citing “moderate” economic activity, lingering inflation, and greater uncertainty tied to tariffs and labor softness. Policymakers offered no indication of imminent rate moves, instead signaling a data-dependent approach for the remainder of the year.
• Yield Curve: The yield curve remained modestly inverted. The 3-month Treasury bill was at 4.41% and the 10-year Treasury bond at 4.39%, creating a slightly negative slope— a historical harbinger of slower growth, if not outright recession. Recession probabilities over the next year rose slightly to 25.7%. Market participants are still broadly expecting possible Fed cuts later in 2025 given the deteriorating data and tighter financial conditions.

Major Corporate News and Stock Moves

• NVIDIA (NVDA): Shares ended the week at $173.72, up ,13% over the last 5-days, brushing near all-time highs on persistent AI chip demand. NVIDIA’s record-shattering Q2 revenue and forward guidance reinforced its preeminence in the AI sector, even as broader tech swooned.
• Tesla (TSLA): Tesla closed at $302.63, down 4.25% over the last 5-days. Reports of a new battery supplier and initiatives to reduce supply-chain exposure to Chinese tariffs were interpreted as strategic positives, but slumping auto demand and tariff uncertainties checked further gains.
• Meta Platforms (META): Meta’s Q2 earnings dazzled, showing 22% revenue growth and 36% profit gains. Shares rose 5.245 over the last 5-days closing at $750.01.
• McDonald’s (MCD): Defensive appeal kept McDonald’s moved shares higher closing at $302.89(+1.48% over the last 5-days). Investors favored its consistent dividend and stable sales, even as questions arose about sector competition and same-store trends.
• Rio Tinto Group (RIO): Rio Tinto dropped 5.47% over the last 5-days after reporting a 16% year-over-year earnings decline to $4.8 billion, squeezed by weaker iron ore and minerals pricing, though aluminium and copper divisions outperformed. The miner maintained a notable dividend, reflecting solid cash flows despite industry headwinds.
• Palantir Technologies (PLTR): Palantir closed at $154.27, -2.85% over the last 5-days and rains up 103.98% YTD. Investors cheered growing commercial/government AI contracts and robust revenue growth, with additional catalysts anticipated as the company prepares to report Q2 results in early August.

Mergers, Acquisitions & Buyouts

M&A activity remained subdued for S&P 500 constituents, with few headline deals finalized this week. Markets remain watchful for regulatory progress on previously announced transformations, such as the Charter-Cox cable merger and prospective mega-buyouts. No blockbuster acquisitions or buyouts involving index heavyweights were announced this week.

IPO Activity

IPO issuance on the NYSE/Nasdaq continued at a brisk pace, with over 200 deals year-to-date. Highlights this week included:

• Figma, Inc. (FIG) debuted on July 31 at $33 and soared to $115.50 by week’s end (+250%), marking one of the year’s most successful tech IPOs.
• Other new offerings: D. Boral ARC Acquisition I Corp. (BCAR), Shoulder Innovations (SI), and Ambiq Micro (AMBQ), with varying first-day performances.

Trade Policy & Tariff Updates

Trade developments dominated the headlines:

• Tariffs: President Trump signed sweeping new tariff orders, including a 35% levy on Canadian imports effective immediately and baseline 10% tariffs on all partners starting in early August. Mexico received a 90-day extension, while South Korea acceded to a new bilateral deal. High-profile copper tariffs and elimination of the de minimis rule for low-value imports intensified trade friction, causing broad commodity and equities volatility.
• The White House’s aggressive stance raises consumer and corporate cost pressures, prompting pushback from business groups. Nevertheless, broader economic fallout remains contained as markets digest the evolving trade landscape.

Commodities & Cryptocurrency

• Gold: Rose to $3,416.00/ounce, up +3.23% over the last 5-days. SPDR Gold Shares rose .56% over the last 5-days.
• Silver: Finished at $37.105/oz, off 2.42%over the last 5-days.
• Crude Oil: Prices weakened on Friday dropping 2.89% closing at $67.26/bbl as supply compensated for concerns over global trade restrictions and recession risks (exact pricing not supplied but trend noted in sector commentary).
• Bitcoin: Bitcoin saw outsized volatility & ended lower for the week at $114,265.

Outlook

Markets ended July on an uncertain note, grappling with aggressive tariffs, underwhelming labor data, and the prospect of prolonged policy disruptions. While megacap tech continues to offer bright spots, broader sentiment is cautious with lingering worries about Fed inaction and persistent global economic headwinds. Investors now shift their focus to August’s data releases, FOMC updates, and the critical next phase of U.S. trade negotiations—each poised to influence the market’s direction in the weeks ahead.