US stocks edge higher after three straight down sessions as investors digest fresh tariffs, inflation data, and Fed commentary. President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs set to begin October 1: a 50% duty on heavy trucks and kitchen cabinets, and a 30% tariff on upholstered furniture. Pharmaceutical companies were spared if they build plants in the US, with Eli Lilly (LLY), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and Merck (MRK) all gaining on the news. Core PCE, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, rose 2.9% year over year in August, in line with estimates, keeping expectations for two more rate cuts this year intact. Investors also weigh the Fed’s divided stance, with officials split on how quickly to ease policy amid a fragile labor market. In trending tickers, Costco (COST) slips after earnings narrowly missed comps, Oklo (OKLO) falls on insider stock sales and Goldman’s neutral initiation, and Boeing (BA) climbs after the FAA signaled it will ease restrictions on 737 Max inspections and deliveries.

Takeaways:

Trump announces 50% tariffs on trucks, 30% on furniture; pharma spared with US plants
Core PCE holds at 2.9%, keeping Fed rate cut path alive
Costco misses comps, Oklo slides on insider sales, Boeing rises on FAA update
Fed split on pace of easing; labor market fragility in focus

Yahoo Finance's flagship show, Morning Brief, is your go-to source for smarter investing and market moves.

Thoughts? Questions? Fan mail? Email us at yfpodcasts@yahooinc.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump tariffs expand, PCE steady, Boeing lifted