Markets Hit New Highs as Earnings Beat and U.S.-China Talks Ease Trade Fears

The major stock market indexes continued to climb last week, with the S&P 500 and the NASDAQ reaching new record highs. A strong start to the third-quarter earnings season, particularly for major banks, buoyed investors, with most companies reporting better-than-expected earnings and profits. On the global front, the announcement of a meeting between the United States and China muted concerns surrounding trade tariffs. While consumer prices rose in September, the advance was softer than expected, bolstering hopes for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve following its meeting this week. Among the market sectors, Information Technology and Communication Services were the leading performers. Ten-year Treasury yields were generally lower last week, dipping below 4.0%. Gold prices, which had been on a notable rally, declined last week, largely due to profit-taking and a reduction in safe-haven demand. Crude oil prices were volatile throughout the week, falling to their lowest levels in months, only to surge later in the week after the U.S. sanctioned two major Russian oil firms.

Inflation Grew Less Than Expected in September

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.3% in September following a 0.4% rise in August. Note: The September CPI data collection was completed before the government shutdown. In September, prices for gasoline rose 4.1% and were the largest factor in the overall monthly increase. Prices for energy rose 1.5% over the month. Food prices increased 0.2% last month. Consumer prices less food and energy rose 0.2% in September after rising 0.3% in each of the two preceding months. The CPI rose 3.0% for the 12 months ended in September after rising 2.9% over the 12 months ended in August. Prices less food and energy also rose 3.0% over the last 12 months. Energy prices increased 2.8% for the year. Prices for food increased 3.1% since September 2024.

The release of most economic data has been delayed due to the government shutdown.

Eye on the Week Ahead

There will be little relevant economic data available during the government shutdown, with the exception of this week’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.