The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) notched another modest but decisive gain on Friday, lifting its weekly performance to nearly 1%. The index continues to push into record territory, supported by the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) recent rate cut and growing market bets on additional easing before year-end.
Dow climbs on Fed support
Equities extended gains despite September’s reputation as a seasonally weak month. The Dow is up more than 1.6% so far this month, setting multiple record highs and positioning for a fifth straight monthly advance.
On Friday, sector performance was mixed. Technology stocks led with a 0.72% rise, followed by consumer discretionary shares, up 0.5%. Energy lagged, falling 1.45% on the day.
Inflation and growth data in focus next week
With the Fed’s rate cut now behind, investors will shift attention back to the data cycle. Upcoming releases include S&P Global PMIs on Tuesday, US GDP growth figures on Thursday, and the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge—the Core PCE—on Friday. These indicators are likely to shape expectations for the Fed’s next policy moves.
