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Investors took comfort in reports suggesting the White House might scale back the scope of proposed tariffs. Market sentiment was buoyed after President Trump indicated he may offer exemptions to certain countries and industries. However, he reaffirmed that tariffs targeting sectors like autos and pharmaceuticals were still likely to proceed soon. Traders have interpreted the softening rhetoric as a possible de-escalation, providing short-term support to equities.<\/p>\n
All eyes are on the Conference Board\u2019s consumer confidence index, due later in the session. Economists expect a decline to 93.5 from February\u2019s 98.3. Any downside surprise could reinforce concerns over slowing economic momentum and weigh on cyclical stocks. Conversely, a stronger-than-expected reading may bolster risk appetite in a market searching for positive catalysts.<\/p>\n
Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic tempered expectations for aggressive monetary easing, shifting his outlook to just one rate cut for the year, down from two. Bostic cited persistent inflation pressures as the reason for dialing back expectations, noting that a clearer path to the Fed\u2019s 2% target remains elusive. Although Bostic is not a voting member on the FOMC this year, his stance reflects a growing split among policymakers\u2014four see one cut, four see none, and eleven still forecast two.<\/p>\n
With recent gains following steep pullbacks, traders remain alert to incoming data and Fed commentary. Consumer confidence and upcoming inflation indicators will be key to gauging the resilience of the recovery. For now, rate cut hopes and easing trade tensions offer near-term support, but any upside may be tempered by inflation stickiness and mixed Fed messaging.<\/p>\n