Wall Street Feels the Heat (and Thrill): Fed Cuts, Tariffs & Mega-Mergers Set NYSE Buzz
The Federal Reserve cut rates by 25 basis points to 4.00–4.25% in mid-September, citing slowing growth as inflation remains above target. The S&P 500 is up about 13% in 2025, but strategists warn valuations are high. Compass agreed to buy Anywhere for $4.2 billion in stock, sending Anywhere shares up nearly 49%. The U.S. implemented a new auto trade pact with the EU, lowering tariffs to 15% as of August 1.