US Stocks Close August with Gains

US equity markets finished August positively, with the S&P 500 rising 2.3% to end just below its record high, while the Nasdaq Composite saw a modest increase of 0.7%. Despite initial volatility due to a disappointing jobs report, improved retail sales and moderated inflation helped stabilize investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also set a record high, closing the month with a 1.76% gain. Concerns about the labor market and mixed signals from Federal Reserve officials continue to create uncertainty regarding future rate cuts. Notably, personal spending rose by 0.5% in July, reflecting consumer resilience, while annual inflation remained steady at 2.5%. All eyes are now on the upcoming jobs report, anticipated to be crucial for future economic policy decisions.