U.S. stocks edged lower as investors navigated a mix of rising oil prices, corporate earnings signals, and shifting expectations around Federal Reserve policy. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all turned down after early gains, reflecting a market grappling with geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns. Indexes Pull Back All three major indexes slipped roughly between 0.3% and 0.6%, giving back some of the previous session’s momentum. The downturn followed renewed volatility in energy markets and cautious sentiment around consumer spending. Oil Prices Add Fresh Pressure Crude prices extended their sharp rally, driven by heightened worries over a potential U.S.–Iran conflict. Brent crude climbed above $71 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $66 — its biggest daily jump since October. Rising energy costs revived inflation concerns and weighed on equities. Walmart Earnings in Focus Walmart posted stronger‑than‑expected results, but its cautious pro...
Bank of Canada Poised for Another Rate Cut Amid Easing Inflation
The Bank of Canada is widely expected to cut its key interest rate again this Wednesday, following recent data indicating a continued easing of inflation. This anticipated move comes after the central bank already reduced its policy rate by 25 basis points to 4.75% last month.
Economists and market analysts are betting on another 25 basis point cut, which would bring the rate down to 4.50%2. The decision is driven by a combination of factors, including a slowdown in consumer price inflation, restrained spending, and a generally lackluster economic outlook.
Recent reports show that inflation cooled to 2.7% in June, down from 2.9% in May. This decline has bolstered confidence that the Bank of Canada will continue its efforts to ease monetary policy. Additionally, rising unemployment and subdued growth expectations have further supported the case for another rate cut.
The Bank of Canada is set to announce its decision on Wednesday at 9:45 AM ET, along with the release of its quarterly Monetary Policy Report, which will include updated forecasts for economic growth and inflation.
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