Stocks mixed as investors weigh Fed outlook and geopolitics
U.S. markets ended mixed on Wednesday as the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady and investors remained cautious over potential U.S. involvement in Middle East hostilities. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.1%, the S&P 500 closed just below the flat line, and the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.1%.
Earlier in the session, all three indexes had risen by around 0.6%, but momentum faded as geopolitical uncertainty and diverging signals from the Fed weighed on sentiment.
Fed keeps rates unchanged, reveals split in rate outlook
The Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady for the fourth consecutive meeting and released its updated Summary of Economic Projections. The median forecast sees the federal funds rate ending 2025 at 3.9%, implying two 25-basis-point cuts this year. However, officials were divided, with several expecting no cuts at all.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the need to monitor inflation closely before committing to rate reductions. “What we are waiting for to reduce rates is to understand what will happen with the tariff inflation,” Powell said. “Ultimately, the cost of the tariffs has to be paid.”
Middle East tensions inject uncertainty
Markets remain on edge over escalating tensions in the Middle East. President Donald Trump declined to confirm whether the U.S. would join Israel in attacking Iranian targets, saying, “I may do it. I may not do it.” Iran has threatened retaliation if the U.S. crosses a red line, including potential missile strikes on American military bases in the region.
The geopolitical uncertainty has added volatility to global markets and contributed to swings in stock prices in recent sessions.
Oil prices steady amid geopolitical risks
Crude prices hovered near recent highs, supported by concerns over supply disruptions. Brent crude traded just above $76 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate remained below $75. Both benchmarks have seen upward pressure amid the risk of regional escalation.