On June 18, 2024, U.S. stocks edged lower as traders absorbed new economic data showing a slowdown in inflation and stronger-than-expected consumer sentiment. The S&P 500 dipped by 0.41% and the Nasdaq Composite fell by 0.71%, both reaching all-time highs before retreating. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also decreased by 0.12%. Inflation in May hit a three-year low, with the core personal consumption expenditures price index up 2.6% annually, meeting expectations. The University of Michigan consumer sentiment index rose to 68.2, surpassing the preliminary forecast of 65.6. These indicators are closely watched as analysts speculate about potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Currently, traders are predicting a 64.1% chance of a rate decrease at the September meeting. Overall, the market closed the first half of 2024 on a positive note.