Stocks were mostly higher this week as relief over the runway for the artificial intelligence (AI) trade offset ongoing concerns about inflation and bond yields, which continue to creep higher. Several key earnings reports across the technology sector helped ease concerns about slowing demand for AI infrastructure.
But earnings season continues to paint a mixed picture. Retailers, particularly those focused on niche and discretionary dollars, are struggling. Even the major names continue to cite the paradox of overall solid consumer spending, but continued anxiety about rising prices.
