Fed Rate Cut Hopes Persist Amid Economic Data Gaps Caused by Government Shutdown

The U.S. government shutdown has stalled several economic data releases, clouding short-term growth and inflation forecasts. Despite limited visibility, markets continue to price in two Federal Reserve rate cuts before year-end. The S&P 500 (US500) rose 0.09% today and remains up nearly 17% year-on-year, reflecting investor confidence in monetary easing prospects and corporate earnings resilience amid persistent fiscal uncertainty and macroeconomic headwinds.