Stocks Mostly Flat as Bonds Slip Ahead of Fed Decision | Closing Bell

Market Overview - The trading day ended with mixed results on Wall Street, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average finishing in the red, down approximately 30 points, while the S&P 500 rose by 7 points, or 0.1% [7] - The Nasdaq increased by 0.2%, and the Russell 2000, which nearly reached a record high, rose by about 19 points, or 0.8% [8] Federal Reserve Insights - The Federal Reserve is anticipated to be a significant market catalyst, with expectations of a near certainty for a 25 basis point rate cut next week [21] - Speculation surrounds the future leadership of the Federal Reserve, with Kevin Hassett being reported as a leading contender for the Fed chair position [5][6] Earnings Reports - Dollar General's stock rose by 14% after raising its full-year outlook, indicating that value-focused retailers are attracting consumers seeking deals [13][14] - Nova was the top gainer in the S&P 500, up about 4.5%, following a repeat wind turbine order from Green Vault in Romania, with the stock up 93% year-to-date [15] - Intel's stock fell over 7% despite being up 100% year-to-date, as the company decided to keep its networking division in-house, reversing previous plans to spin it off [16][17] - Wynn Resorts' stock dropped more than 4% due to concerns about potential weakness in the U.S. market, as indicated by Marriott's warnings [18] - Kroger cut its sales guidance, citing increased competition and a shift back to paper coupons [19] Retail Sector Performance - Ulta's stock rose about 4.3% in aftermarket trading after reporting a significant increase in fiscal year comp sales and net sales guidance [26][28] - Stitch Fix reported a slight revenue beat and expects to turn a profit in the upcoming quarter, indicating consumer willingness to spend despite economic uncertainties [30][31]