U.S. stocks closed lower across the board as markets turned cautious ahead of next weekâs Fed meetings and economic data. The Dow was weighed down by industrial and energy stocksâCaterpillar (CAT) fell on softer global infrastructure projections, and Chevron (CVX) dropped as crude prices weakened. The S&PâŻ500 pulled back amid broad-based profit taking, while the Nasdaq held up slightly better thanks to strength in large-cap tech. Apple (AAPL) slipped after reports showed a slowdown in June iPhone unit sales, and Microsoft (MSFT) eased amid tax-related headlines in Europe. In financials, JPMorgan (JPM) retreated following mixed bank earnings, and Wells Fargo (WFC) lagged on concerns around rising credit costs. On the positive side, Costco (COST) rose as summer traffic remained robust, and Moderna (MRNA) saw modest gains after announcing further RSV vaccine trial success. Overall, todayâs session reflected emerging caution and consolidation after recent highs, with investors pausing before the Fedâs next moves. Market Drivers: đ±Technology: Apple Slips, Microsoft Eases: Apple (AAPL) declined after supply chain data pointed to softer-than-expected iPhone shipments in June. Microsoft (MSFT) edged lower amid headlines surrounding a potential European tax dispute, weighing on broader software sentiment. đŠ Financials: JPMorgan Retreats, Wells Fargo Lags: JPMorgan Chase (JPM) slipped after reporting mixed Q2 results, with strong trading revenue offset by rising loan-loss provisions. Wells Fargo (WFC) also fell as investors focused on elevated credit costs and muted loan growth guidance. đ Automotive: Tesla Softens, Ford Holds: Tesla (TSLA) eased as analysts flagged concerns around Q3 delivery momentum and margin compression from aggressive pricing. Ford Motor (F) held steady after reaffirming its hybrid strategy in light of slowing EV adoption trends. đ„ Healthcare: Moderna Gains, UnitedHealth Dips: Moderna (MRNA) rose following positive updates on its RSV vaccine trial, reigniting interest in biotech vaccine plays. UnitedHealth Group (UNH), meanwhile, dipped despite reaffirmed guidance, as investors rotated out of defensives. đ Consumer Discretionary: Costco Climbs, Nike Slips: Costco Wholesale (COST) gained on strong member traffic and robust summer grocery demand. Nike (NKE) declined as concerns over China sales and foreign exchange headwinds resurfaced. 7 Nuclear Stocks to Buy Before They Surge[ad] |