U.S. equities reached record highs during the week but saw a decline by Friday due to inflation indicators impacting the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions. The GLD ETF is also trading close to its record peak. The Core Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, a key inflation measure for the Federal Reserve, increased by 2.9% year-over-year in July, the highest in five months. Despite recent hints from Fed Chair Jerome Powell about potential rate cuts, the latest inflation data has introduced uncertainty, notably as inflation exceeded the Fed's 2% target. Additionally, the U.S. goods trade deficit rose significantly to $103.6 billion in July, a substantial increase from June. This information reveals potential economic challenges ahead. Check live prices for further updates.