US stocks were mixed on Tuesday as investors analyzed big bank earnings and a retail sales surprise, along with speculation of an imminent interest rate cut. The Dow Jones Industrial Average hit a record high, rising 1.4%, led by positive earnings from UnitedHealth. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq moved in different directions, with Bank of America and Morgan Stanley both reporting strong results. Chair Jerome Powell hinted at a potential rate cut due to solid inflation figures, while retail sales numbers surpassed expectations. Traders are now almost certain of a rate cut in September. However, some lawmakers caution against a partisan move by the Federal Reserve before the election. Amidst political chatter, former President Trump's survival of an assassination attempt has solidified his position as a presidential candidate, with his choice of running mate strengthening his campaign.