
Markets Hit Records Amid Mixed Economic Signals
The S&P 500 reached new record highs this week despite a backdrop of conflicting economic data. While labor markets remained robust with jobless claims falling to 217,000, manufacturing showed notable weakness as the Richmond Fed Index plunged to -20, signaling broad contraction across the Fifth District. Housing markets continued struggling under elevated mortgage rates, with existing home sales dropping to nine-month lows even as inventory conditions shifted in favor of buyers. With the Federal Reserve meeting this week and mixed second-quarter earnings reports, markets are navigating uncertainty around monetary policy timing and economic direction.