Trump to host Zelensky in DC, Walmart and Target earnings preview

Geopolitics and Macroeconomics - Investors are focused on President Trump's meeting with Ukraine's president and European allies, seeking clarity on commitments made to Vladimir Putin [1][3][4] - The market anticipates potential interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve in September, influenced by recent US jobs and inflation data [8] - Economist Mark Summerland suggests a 50 basis points rate cut next month, citing a slowing economy and an inverted yield curve [9][11] Retail Sector - Big box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot are in focus this week as they report earnings [6] - July retail sales grew 05%, driven by car dealerships, furniture stores, and online spending, but consumer sentiment remains below last year, falling 5% to 586% [6][7] - Target is expected to report potentially lowered guidance, with about 50% of their cost of goods sold tied to imports and tariffs [28] - Home Depot and Lowe's stocks have risen, pricing in a potential rate cut from the Federal Reserve in September, which could improve remodeling trends [30][31] - Walmart is expected to report strong sales and reaffirm guidance, benefiting from lower prices, a larger grocery section, and a better website [34][35][36] Energy Sector - Vestas' shares rose over 16% after the Treasury Department and IRS issued guidance on tax credits for clean energy projects [16][17] - Sunrun's stock jumped almost a third, up over 2%, after the Trump administration released new guidance on tax credits for renewable projects [18][19] - Oil prices are holding steady as traders await clues from the meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky [20] Trending Tickers - Nova Nordisk's stock is getting a boost after receiving FDA approval for Wegovy to treat a serious form of liver disease [43] - Soho House is set to go private in a deal worth $28 billion, with investors paying $9 a share [47] - Palo Alto Networks is set to report fourth-quarter earnings, with analysts expecting adjusted earnings of 89 cents per share on revenue of $25 billion [50]