Wall Street's Watchful Eye on Federal Reserve Moves and Retailer Insights

Wall Street's main indexes are poised for a mixed start as investors analyze Home Depot's earnings for consumer insights and anticipate the Federal Reserve's crucial conference. With consumer spending critical to the U.S. economy, rate-cut expectations and trade uncertainties loom large. Key Fed speeches and corporate news are being closely monitored.

Wall Street is bracing for a mixed opening as investors scrutinize Home Depot's earnings for insights into consumer behavior, while also anticipating important announcements from the Federal Reserve's upcoming conference.

Home Depot's shares gained 1.8% despite a mixed quarterly performance, reflecting homeowners' shift to smaller DIY projects amid tariff uncertainties. Analysts are also keenly observing reports from Lowe's, Walmart, and Target, set to release later this week.

The spotlight is also on remarks from Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman, a potential successor for the top job at the Fed. As interest rate uncertainties persist, consumer hesitancy remains palpable, awaiting direction from key policy decisions and economic forecasts.

(With inputs from agencies.)