The S&P 500 hit a new all-time high on September 11, fueled by optimism around potential interest rate cuts despite persistent inflation and labor market pressures. With rate reductions anticipated later this year, investors remain focused on economic data that could shape future monetary policy and market performance.

U.S. equity markets remain near record highs, even as softer economic data emerges. Signs of a weakening labor market have strengthened expectations for Fed rate cuts—fueling optimism in risk assets. Yet, that same softness also raises concerns about a downturn in the economy.

This week on 7 Market Movers, find out how U.S. equities are once again nearing record highs, mixed inflation data is complicating expectations for Fed rate cuts, and signs of softening emerge in hiring and consumer demand.

In this month's investment market commentary, find out how equity markets nearly reached all-time highs while signs of economic moderation have begun to appear.

Markets balance strong tech earnings with tariff tensions, Fed uncertainty, and mixed GDP signals. Get insights on what’s driving equities, rates, and economic sentiment this week.

This week on 7 Market Movers, Portfolio Consulting Director Aya Yoshioka discusses the interplay between tariffs and inflation and the most recent trade deal with Japan. Aya also covers what we can expect from Q2 earnings reports over the next week. She anticipates that updates on capital expenditures and artificial intelligence will dominate headlines. Watch to hear more macroeconomic updates, including labor market and unemployment data and what those could signal for the markets.

Despite facing severe headwinds, the S&P 500 closed Q2 at an all-time high. Investors remain optimistic, although elevated market valuations and margin-driven earnings growth signal potential vulnerabilities.

In the June 2025 edition of “Markets Monthly: Strategies & Perspectives,” get market updates and insights from Wealth Enhancement’s Investment Management team.

The market pulled back slightly so far this week and retail sales fell below expectations—declining by 0.9%. There was also a 3.5% decline in auto sales, indicating consumers’ hesitation to make big ticket purchases. Watch as Gary Quinzel, Vice President for Portfolio Consulting, discusses the Federal Reserve’s reaction and other macroeconomic headlines.