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Final Countdown: Key Updates and Things to Know as U.S. Election Nears

  With just three days remaining until the U.S. presidential election, the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is reaching its climax. Both candidates are making their final appeals to voters in key battleground states, aiming to sway undecided voters and solidify their support base. Latest Updates: 1. Polling Data: Recent polls indicate a tight race, with Harris holding a slight edge nationally but Trump leading in several key swing states. 2. Early Voting: Early voting numbers have reached unprecedented levels, with millions of Americans already casting their ballots. 3. Campaign Events: Harris and Trump are hosting dueling rallies in battleground states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, making their final pitches to voters. Key Things to Know: 1. Polling Accuracy: Confidence in polling has been shaken by past errors, but efforts are being made to improve accuracy. 3. Candidates' Stances: Harris and Trump have different approaches to key

Stock Market Today: US Futures Hold Steady as Inflation Test Looms

                                    

US stocks held steady on Wednesday, eyeing fresh record highs ahead of a crucial update on consumer prices that could upend rate-cut hopes and as meme stocks regrouped after a roaring rally. Investors are closely watching inflation data to gauge its impact on interest rates and overall market sentiment. Here are the details:

  • Wholesale Prices Surge: New data showed that wholesale prices increased 0.5% month-over-month in April, surpassing the 0.3% consensus expectation. The Producer Price Index, which measures prices producers receive for goods produced, revealed this unexpected rise. Additionally, March’s monthly price increase was revised lower to a decrease of 0.1% from an initial reading of a 0.2% increase.
  • Meme Stocks Roar Back: Retail investors flocked to meme stocks, with AMC shares surging over 120% and GameStop popping about 100% for a second consecutive day. The return of an influential social media star reignited interest in these volatile stocks.
  • Federal Reserve’s Stance: A chorus of Federal Reserve officials has emphasized that they won’t lower rates until they’re confident of a cooling economy. Investors eagerly await comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell to gauge progress on the inflation mission and assess how the US economy is holding up.
  • Optimism and Caution: Stocks have paused their recent rally as investors weigh whether inflation has become less sticky and started to fall, potentially setting the stage for interest rate cuts. The market remains cautiously optimistic about the economy’s trajectory.
  • Alibaba’s Earnings Report: Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba reported a worse-than-expected 86% drop in profit but beat Wall Street estimates for revenue. Despite this, Alibaba shares fell around 6% following the earnings release.

As the Consumer Price Index data looms, investors are closely monitoring inflation trends. The stock market’s resilience amid uncertainty reflects both optimism and caution. Stay tuned for further updates as the economic landscape continues to evolve.


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