Stocks Dip as Fed Chair Powell Signals Inflation Concerns Amid Market Uncertainty

U.S. stock markets experienced a cautious pullback following a strong rally, as investors awaited key economic data, including the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures index, which could influence interest rate expectations. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the need to balance risks of persistent inflation against a weakening labor market, leaving uncertainty about the timing and extent of future rate cuts. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about Ukraine's ability to reclaim occupied territories with EU support, boosting European defense stocks, although no policy changes were indicated. The dollar strengthened broadly against major currencies amid these dynamics, while sectors like technology faced mixed reactions, with declines in major tech stocks contrasted by gains in companies like Boeing. Overall, market participants remain cautious, seeking clearer signals from economic data and corporate earnings to justify recent market highs amid geopolitical and monetary policy uncertainties.