<h1>Stock Markets Rise Despite Trade Tensions and Tariff Hikes, Fed Holds Rates Amid Economic Uncertainty</h1> US stock markets ended the week with gains despite ongoing trade tensions and tariff escalations imposed by the government. Major indices rose, led by technology and financial sectors, with several companies reporting strong quarterly earnings. The market largely disregarded the impact of new import taxes on multiple countries. The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates, facing pressure from the administration to lower them amid economic uncertainty. A recent nomination to the Fed board is expected to support rate cuts, with markets anticipating a reduction at the next meeting. Treasury yields slightly increased, reflecting mixed signals about inflation and employment. Upcoming government reports on inflation and retail sales are expected to influence market sentiment, which remains sensitive to trade policies, economic data, and geopolitical risks.