U.S. stock market outlook upbeat as indices near records but caution lingers

The major U.S. indices — including the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite — reached fresh highs on Friday following a softer-than-expected inflation print, giving the Federal Reserve more room to consider easing. A recent article noted that while the advances are broad, investor caution remains high: earnings beats will need to support valuations and confidence must hold even with extended run-ups. With the market up ~15 % year-to-date, strategists say consolidation is likely unless fresh catalysts emerge.