US growth returns. What about inflation?

Investors shrugged off Nvidia’s latest earnings report despite slower AI growth signals with shares swinging around their all-time highs. Analysts lifted price targets, keeping optimism alive. Broadly, S&P500 companies reported a strong Q2, with earnings growth near 12%, surpassing expectations, while Federal Reserve (Fed) rate-cut expectations support further equity gains.
On the data front, US Q2 GDP came in at 3.3%, real sales rose 6.8% and core inflation remained sticky at 2% keeping markets cautiously optimistic. Trade tensions continue as the US ends the de minimis exemption on low-value goods, potentially adding inflationary pressure. In Europe, August inflation data and possible US-EU car tariff reductions from 27.5% to 15% are in focus, while French political instability affects euro sentiment.
Sector-wise, energy stocks climbed on US GDP optimism and dividend-paying names may attract more capital amid looming inflation risks.
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