S&P 500 Ends Week Within Striking Distance of Record Ahead of Next Week's Fed Decision

Market Performance - The S&P 500 approached its all-time high, rising 0.2% and marking its second consecutive weekly gain [1] - The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 104 points, or 0.2% [1] - The Nasdaq Composite saw a rise of 0.3% [1] Economic Indicators - The September core personal consumption expenditures price index met economist forecasts, contributing to market stability [2] - The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index exceeded expectations in December, indicating positive consumer outlook [2]