Key Economic Events and Company Reports: An Investor Overview for July 30, 2025

Wednesday, July 30, 2025, promises to be a busy day for the investment community. Investors from the CIS countries will need to monitor several fronts: on one hand, important economic events could impact the global stock market, while on the other hand, the peak of quarterly corporate reporting begins. The focus is on the financial results of a number of large companies for the second quarter and the outcome of the US Federal Reserve's meeting. This article provides up-to-date stock analytics and key factors of the day that will help navigate the risks and opportunities these events present for your investments and what to pay attention to on the exchanges.

Macroeconomic Events

Central to the day are macroeconomic publications that could set the tone for trading on the US stock exchange and worldwide. In the morning, several data releases from the US will come out: at 15:15 Moscow time, the ADP employment report for the private sector is expected, which may show a recovery in job growth after a weak June (forecasts suggest around 80,000 to 100,000 new jobs). Shortly thereafter, at 15:30 MSK, investors will learn the preliminary GDP estimate for the US for Q2 – a growth of approximately 2.4% year-on-year is anticipated. A confident GDP figure will amplify optimism in the market, while weak numbers could heighten recession fears.

The culmination of the day will be the Federal Reserve's meeting: the decision will be announced at 21:00 MSK. The regulator is expected to keep the base rate unchanged (in the current range of ~5.25–5.5%), despite political pressure and calls for cuts. Investors will closely listen to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks at the press conference (at 21:30 MSK) for signals regarding future policy – especially hints of a possible rate reduction in September or later. The decisions of the Federal Reserve traditionally influence the overall dynamics of the stock market, currency rates, and precious metals. Thus, the combination of GDP data and the Fed's rhetoric will dictate market sentiments: confirmation of decelerating inflation and a soft tone from the regulator could support a rally in risk assets, while any “hawkish” surprises or disappointing economic events could increase volatility.

Company Earnings Reports (Before US Market Opens)

Before the main trading session on the American exchanges (before the US market opens), a number of large companies will release their earnings reports. Let's examine their forecasts and potential impacts on share prices:

• Vertiv (VRT) – a global provider of power supply and cooling solutions for data centers. The company has emerged as one of the beneficiaries of the artificial intelligence boom: ~80% of its revenue comes from the rapidly growing data center segment, and demand for AI infrastructure is at a record high. For Q2, the earnings forecast is about $0.83 per share (up ~24% year-over-year), with revenue consensus at $2.35 billion (+20% year-over-year). If the report confirms robust growth rates, Vertiv's stock may continue its ascent. Investors are also awaiting comments on new orders and collaborations with chip industry leaders (e.g., Nvidia) – such news has previously boosted Vertiv's stock prices.
• Altria Group (MO) – the largest tobacco manufacturer in the US (Marlboro brand, among others). Altria traditionally exhibits stable profitability due to high pricing power despite declining cigarette sales volumes. Q2 financial results are expected to be moderately positive: consensus estimates an earnings of about $1.38 per share compared to $1.31 a year earlier, with revenue at ~$5.19 billion. The company continues to compensate for the decrease in smokers by raising prices. Meanwhile, Altria is betting on smoke-free products (NJOY e-cigarettes, on! nicotine pouches), attempting to solidify its position in the alternatives segment – their sales are growing at double-digit rates. Investors will monitor whether the company has managed to slow down the decline in traditional cigarette sales and how new products are performing. Altria’s shares are viewed as "defensive," so no sharp movements are anticipated, but any information about future dividends and industry regulation is crucial.
• Kraft Heinz (KHC) – an American food giant (Heinz, Kraft, Oscar Mayer brands, etc.), whose report will reflect consumer demand for food products. Analysts estimate that revenue for Q2 will be about $6.3 billion (down ~3% year-over-year due to the sale of non-core assets and currency fluctuations), with earnings around $0.64 per share. Kraft Heinz’s quarterly report will likely reflect slowing growth: consumers have become more price-sensitive, and while the company has raised prices, sales volumes may have decreased. Nevertheless, the business hopes to maintain margins through cost-cutting measures and efficiencies. If the actual financial results exceed expectations or management improves guidance for the year, KHC shares could rebound from recent lows (the stock has lost ~18% over the year). Conversely, neutral or weak figures will confirm the market's cautious view of the consumer goods sector.
• Teva Pharmaceutical (TEVA) – an Israeli-American pharmaceutical company, a global leader in generic drug production. After several years of restructuring and reducing debt, Teva is showing signs of stability. The market earnings forecast for Q2 is quite optimistic: expected earnings are ~$0.62 per share with revenue around $4.27 billion. This confirms the trend of improvement: the company has increased revenue year-over-year for nine consecutive quarters. Investors will look for signs of further growth in the report, such as the success of new drugs (e.g., anti-migraine Ajovy, treatments for multiple sclerosis) and comments on reducing debt burdens. Should Teva exceed expectations again (which it has often done in the past), the stock may strengthen. However, risks remain: pricing pressure in the generics market and legal settlement costs (e.g., concerning the opioid crisis) could impact profitability.
• Generac (GNRC) – an American manufacturer of backup generators and energy storage systems. Following the pandemic boom in demand (as many installed home generators), the company now faces a cooling market and increased competition in the solar panel and battery sectors. Nevertheless, Q2 forecasts expect stabilization: revenue around $1.02 billion (+2% year-on-year), with earnings ~$1.32 per share (slightly down ~2% year-on-year). Investors want to see how Generac is handling excess inventory and declining orders from the rush of previous years. A positive signal may be increasing demand from commercial clients and the energy grid segment (storage systems, load management programs). Additionally, approaching hurricane season in the Atlantic typically heightens interest in generators – if Generac’s management reports increased orders amid seasonal factors, this will support the stock. If, however, disappointment arises—such as a weak forecast or profit issues—share prices may continue to face downward pressure.
• Etsy (ETSY) – a global e-commerce platform for selling handmade and vintage goods. After rapid growth during the pandemic, Etsy has leveled off: sales have stabilized, and the primary question now is whether the platform can regain growth momentum. The consensus estimates Q2 revenue to remain around $648 million (the same as a year earlier), while adjusted earnings could surge to ~$1.09 per share (up from $0.41 a year ago) due to cost-cutting measures. This sharp increase in EPS is attributed to savings measures and increased seller fees. Investors will closely monitor trends in active buyers and sellers: if the audience begins to grow again or GMV (gross merchandise value) exceeds expectations, the market will perceive this positively. Conversely, if Etsy indicates weak consumer demand or increased competition (e.g., from Amazon Handmade or similar platforms), shares could decline. Special attention should be given to management's guidance for the second half of the year, as it will determine the company’s online investment prospects in marketplaces.
• Virtu Financial (VIRT) – one of the largest high-frequency traders and market makers in financial markets. For Virtu, key profitability factors are volatility and trading volumes: in calm periods, its income decreases, while in turbulent times it increases. Based on expectations, Q2 could yield significant improvement: consensus analysis points to revenue of around $513 million (+30% year-on-year) and a strong profit surge – analysts forecast around $1.30 per share, significantly higher than the same period last year. Such growth is fueled by heightened market activity in spring (volatility spikes due to the banking crisis, interest rate changes, etc.). If the report confirms these figures, it will signal that stock analytics for Virtu suggest the company can successfully earn amid market fluctuations. The outlook is also key: investors await comments on regulatory plans (the SEC has discussed restrictions for HFT firms) and whether trader activity remains high at the start of Q3. Any signs of declining revenues during the summer months could temper bullish sentiment for VIRT shares.
• Humana (HUM) – one of the largest health insurance companies in the US, specializing in Medicare plans (for seniors). The medical insurance sector has faced rising treatment costs this year, which could pressure profitability. Estimates for Humana in Q2 are mixed: revenue is expected at ~$31.8 billion (+8% year-on-year), while earnings per share will likely decrease – consensus is around $6.3, about 10-15% lower than last year. The reason is increased medical claims payouts due to deferred pandemic procedures and rising medical service costs. Investors will want to know if Humana will maintain its guidance for the year: previously, the company confirmed it could manage rising costs, and the market responded positively. Should the report reveal that medical inflation is “eating” into profits more than expected, shares of HUM may decline. On the other hand, any positive news – such as an increase in covered individuals or efficiency of cost management programs – will bolster confidence that the business is resilient even in a challenging industry.
• Hershey (HSY) – a well-known producer of chocolate and snacks (Hershey's, Reese's, KitKat brands in the US, etc.). The company is regarded as a consumer defensive asset, but it surprised with a profit decline in the last quarter amid rising costs. In Q2, analysts forecast mixed figures: revenue could sharply rise to about $2.55 billion (+22% year-on-year) – partly due to acquisitions of new brands – but expected earnings are only about $1.01 per share, which is ~20% lower than last year's level. Hershey's margins are suffering from rising raw material prices (sugar, milk, cocoa) and increased distribution costs, even though the company has raised prices on its products. Investors will need to assess if this margin compression is temporary. If management reports stabilizing costs or successful passing of expenses onto consumers, shares may recover. Segment data will also be crucial: how much have sales in North America increased (expected +27% year-on-year for confections) and what are the results of the international business? HSY shares recently partially recovered with a +10% gain over the month, and for further growth, the market needs convincing signals that the worst is behind.
• HSBC (HSBC) – a global bank primarily focused on Asia and Europe. Its interim report (Interim Results 2025) will be released early in the morning in London, but it will be available to US investors “before the opening” of the New York Stock Exchange. Amid high interest rates, HSBC is generating record interest income, and strong results are expected. The consensus forecast is for earnings of about $1.65 per share (slightly down from $1.75 last year) with revenue around $16.6 billion (in line with last year). Particular interest centers on the future: the bank may announce further share buybacks or dividend increases, as it has excess capital following the sale of its Canadian division. Additionally, investors from the CIS are likely to pay attention to comments on the state of the Chinese economy – as a leading bank in Hong Kong, HSBC is often aware of trends before others. If management reports growing loan demand in Asia and minimal defaults, it will not only support HSBC’s stock but also improve perceptions of the banking sector as a whole. Conversely, any cautious remarks – for example, about a slowdown in China or regulatory pressures – could restrain stock gains.

Company Earnings Reports (After US Market Closes)

The key surprises of the day may come after trading concludes in the US market. After the market closes on July 30, a number of prominent corporations, including technology giants, will report. Their results and forecasts will set the tone for global markets the following day. Below are the key companies to watch:

• Meta Platforms (META) – the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp – will present its report in the latter part of the day. The market anticipates very strong results: forecasts suggest revenue of around $44.5 billion (+14% year-on-year) with net earnings per share of ~$5.84 (+14% year-on-year). Key drivers include the recovery of the advertising business (advertisers are increasing budgets in social media as the economy improves) and the impact of cost-saving measures announced by Mark Zuckerberg (his “efficiency year” has improved the company’s margins). Investors will also pay attention to the Reality Labs segment (metaverse and VR/AR) – it remains unprofitable, and the market is keen to see how well the company controls these expenses. Of particular interest are management's comments regarding product development: for instance, on the early successes of the text service Threads (a competitor to Twitter) and the implementation of AI tools for advertising. Meta's stock has risen about 150% from its 2022 lows, so further growth requires truly impressive financial results. If the report confirms double-digit revenue growth and optimistic guidance, it will support the entire technology sector. However, even with strong numbers, increased volatility is possible – a year ago, there were instances where Meta's stock dropped due to a cautious forecast despite better-than-expected profits.
• Microsoft (MSFT) – a cornerstone of the IT industry – will also report after market close. This will be Microsoft’s final quarter of fiscal year 2025, and continued robust growth is expected, primarily driven by cloud services and AI. Consensus estimates revenue of about $73.9 billion (+14% year-on-year) and ~$3.37 earnings per share. A key focus will be the intelligent cloud segment (Azure): investors will want to learn how Azure has fared (last quarter saw growth accelerate to ~27% year-on-year, and the market hopes for a continuation of this pace). Moreover, Microsoft is actively integrating AI (from investments in OpenAI/ChatGPT to implementing Copilot features in Office) – analysts will be waiting for comments on how these initiatives are impacting sales and costs. Another focal point will be the personal computer business (Windows, devices), which had previously declined but may have stabilized with the market recovery. Microsoft typically gives cautious guidance, and stock reactions will depend on whether Wall Street's forecasts are exceeded by actual figures and how confidently Satya Nadella communicates the outlook for the next year. Similar to Meta, a successful Microsoft report could uplift the entire stock market, whereas any hints of a slowdown (e.g., if the cloud business fails to meet expectations) could trigger sell-offs in the sector.
• Robinhood Markets (HOOD) – a popular trading platform for retail investors – will reveal results after market close and provide insights into individual traders' sentiment. Expectations are quite high: the company has been recovering amid rising stock markets and increased interest in cryptocurrencies after experiencing a slump in activity in 2022. Analysts forecast revenue in the range of $893–915 million (+34% year-on-year) and earnings around $0.30–0.31 per share (34-48% above the previous year). Several factors support this growth: a significant rise in options trading income (+39% year-on-year forecast), increased interest income (due to high rates on customer account balances), and a surge in new clients for the paid Robinhood Gold service (in Q1, the number of Gold subscribers grew by 90% year-on-year to 3.2 million). If actual figures meet or exceed forecasts, it will confirm the optimistic earnings forecast and growth in business efficiency—providing a further boost to HOOD shares, which have already risen 47% from June lows. However, risks remain significant: if disappointing results occur (e.g., a decrease in trading activity in summer or weak outlook for Q2) shares could correct sharply. Moreover, investors will be monitoring mentions of regulatory issues—regulation of crypto trading is a hotly debated topic in the US, and any comments from the company on this matter are crucial.
• Applied Blockchain (APLD) – a relatively small company in the blockchain infrastructure sector (recently renamed to Applied Digital). It provides data center services for cryptocurrency mining and increasingly for AI computations. The report will be released after the market closes, likely capturing the attention of a niche audience interested in the crypto industry. Expectations are subdued: the consensus forecast is a loss of around -$0.16 per share (compared to -$0.36 last year) with revenue around $37 million, which is even 13-15% lower than a year ago. The year-on-year revenue decline is attributed to a pause in major projects: last year, Applied Digital completed several contracts for miner placements that caused revenue surges (+98% year-on-year), but the company is now transitioning to servicing cloud-based AI calculations and is awaiting new contracts. Investors in this high-risk asset want to hear two key points: plans to expand capacities (building new data centers for AI clients) and order dynamics from major clients (for instance, the company recently mentioned contracts for AI cloud). Should management communicate progress and confirm a focus not only on the volatile crypto business but also on stable demand from AI companies, the stock may respond positively. Otherwise, a weak report could heighten concerns about business sustainability, keeping the volatility of APLD shares high.
• Carvana (CVNA) – an online dealership for used cars that has become a symbol of the “rollercoaster” on the stock market. After rapid growth in 2020-21, Carvana faced a crisis and was close to bankruptcy in 2022, but in 2023-2024, it implemented a debt restructuring plan and achieved positive free cash flow. Now the market awaits the report eagerly, looking to understand if the company’s turnaround is solid. Projections are impressive: revenue in Q2 is expected to be around $4.58 billion (+34% year-on-year), and earnings per share could reach $1.10–1.17, significantly up from $0.37 a year earlier. Such an earnings surge (if confirmed) will result from stringent cost control, rising gross margin on vehicle sales, and reduced interest expenses following debt restructuring. Investors will pay particular attention to two factors: sales growth (how many cars Carvana sold in the quarter and what profit was made per unit) and updated projections for cash generation. Management previously emphasized a focus on profitability over market share pursuit – in Q1 2025, Carvana achieved operational profitability for the first time in a long while. If Q2 solidifies this success and the company indicates further favorable dynamics, CVNA shares (which have already increased severalfold from winter lows) may continue their rally. But risks are also present: the used car market is volatile, interest rates are high, impacting purchasing power, and any negative deviation (e.g., slower revenue growth or a renewed loss) could deflate inflated investor expectations.
• Lam Research (LRCX) – a global leader in equipment production for semiconductor factories (competing with Applied Materials and others). The company’s report is a barometer of the health of the chip industry. In 2023, equipment manufacturers faced a downturn due to memory market saturation and reduced capital spending from chip makers. However, signs of demand revival have emerged in late 2024 to early 2025 (especially due to investments in new factories for AI chip production and automotive business). In Q2 (for Lam, this is the fourth quarter of the financial year), analysts expect revenue growth to about $5.0 billion (+29% year-on-year) with relatively modest earnings of ~$1.20 per share. This imbalance (with revenue rising and profits significantly below last year’s level) is due to abnormally high income during the same quarter last year (the cycle peaked), while margins have decreased due to under-utilized production capacity. Nevertheless, the market is looking ahead: it will be crucial what the company says about new orders. If Lam Research’s management reports an increase in orders from memory and logic chip manufacturers in the second half of the year (for example, due to global construction of new factories and government support programs for the industry), the stock may gain upward momentum along with the entire sector. Conversely, any cautious notes (e.g., regarding the impact of export restrictions in China or that demand recovery remains unstable) could lead to corrections in LRCX shares and similar companies.
• Qualcomm (QCOM) – a developer of mobile processors and modems whose chips are used in numerous smartphones worldwide. Qualcomm's results provide insight into the health of the smartphone and wireless device market. After a downturn in 2022-2023, the industry shows signs of revival: many consumers are upgrading their devices, and the development of 5G and new technologies supports demand for chips. Revenue for the quarter is expected to be around $10.3 billion (+10% year-on-year), with earnings at ~$2.70 per share (+11% year-on-year). The key factor here is the mobile chipsets business (QCT division), where sales have started to grow as inventory normalizes among phone manufacturers. However, there are also counterbalancing factors: in the second half of 2025, Apple plans to partially switch to its own modems for iPhones, which may reduce Qualcomm’s income in the future. Investors will be looking for answers to two questions in the report: how sustainable the current recovery is (is there guidance for further sales growth in the smartphone and automotive solutions segments) and how the company is diversifying (IoT, automotive electronics, cloud AI chips). Should Qualcomm exceed forecasts and provide a strong outlook for the next quarter, the market would view this as a signal of the company’s robust standing, even in light of potential future contract losses with Apple. Conversely, any cautious outlook or hints of market share contraction could pressure QCOM shares.
• Kinross Gold (KGC) – an international gold mining company with mines located in the US, Brazil, and West Africa. 2025 is favorable for gold: prices remain high at about $1950-2000 per ounce, driven by investor interest in protective assets. Kinross, having recently sold its Russian assets and refocused on other regions, is expected to see a sharp increase in profits. The consensus estimate for EPS in Q2 is around $0.32–0.34, more than double last year’s level. Revenue is forecasted at around $1.55–1.56 billion due to increasing production volumes and favorable metal prices. If the report confirms these results, it will indicate successful management efforts to reduce costs (a crucial measure is All-in Sustaining Cost per ounce of gold) and operational efficiency of the mines. Kinross is also likely to update investors on developmental projects – for instance, expansion in Nevada or Ghana. For holders of gold mining stocks, a key risk is potential declines in gold prices, but for now, the backdrop remains favorable. A strong KGC report could draw additional interest to the precious metals sector, whereas disappointment, such as increased costs or issues at mines, could temporarily cool enthusiasm for gold company shares.
• Ford Motor (F) – one of the "Detroit Three" automakers, whose results are crucial not only on their own but also as an indicator of industrial health and consumer demand. Ford will publish data post-market close; analysts expect a slight decline in results compared to last year. Revenue is projected to be around $45–46 billion (2-3% lower year-on-year) with earnings around $0.33–0.34 per share (also a slight decrease relative to a strong Q2 2024). The main reasons for stagnation include rising costs (the price of components and materials has increased) and ongoing investments in electric vehicles, which are currently unprofitable. However, Ford has strong areas - its profitable North American business from F-series pickups and SUVs, where demand remains stable. Investors will analyze segment reporting: how profitable is the gasoline division and what is the magnitude of losses in the electric Model e segment. The implications of the company’s future amidst intensifying competition (e.g., Tesla has been lowering prices, increasing pressure on the entire market) will also be on the agenda. If Ford reports progress in improving EV business margins or new initiatives to reduce costs, it will be taken positively. An additional factor is potential comments about negotiations with labor unions (the contract with the UAW ends in September 2025, and the market is already pricing in risks of strikes). Overall, a moderate report without surprises will likely be received neutrally by the market, whereas any deviation (better or worse than expectations) could drive short-term movements in F shares.
• Arm Holdings (ARM) – developer of ARM chip architecture, whose technologies are licensed by nearly all mobile processor manufacturers (Apple, Qualcomm, Samsung, etc.). The company returned to the stock market at the end of 2023, and now every performance attracts attention as a test of the high valuation's justification. The report will be released post-close and will encompass Arm’s first quarter of fiscal year 2026. In the previous quarter, Arm reported record revenue of $844 million (+5% year-on-year) due to record royalties (payments from every chip produced based on ARM). However, investors were disappointed by a conservative forecast: management projected current quarter revenues of $920–970 million, merely in line with the consensus and not exceeding it. In the upcoming report, it is crucial for the market to see signs of accelerated growth – indications that demand for ARM designs is rising amid the AI boom, Internet of Things, and the company’s expansion into new markets (e.g., chips for servers and vehicles). Any news about big new licensing deals or an increased share in high-performance processors would be sensational. Attention should also be paid to margins and R&D expenses: Arm is investing substantial funds into developing new architectures, and maintaining high profitability would be a plus. If the report and CEO comments confirm accelerated growth (for instance, double-digit increases in royalties), it will convince the market that the current valuation of Arm is justified, and stocks will gain support. Conversely, if revenue growth remains modest, and the forecast again aligns merely “with the line,” ARM shares might retreat, given their sensitivity to shifts in sentiment post-IPO.

Companies to Watch Closely

Among the numerous reports on this day, several companies may cause the greatest resonance among investors and significantly impact market dynamics:

• Meta Platforms (META) – as one of the largest representatives of the IT sector, Meta could set the tone for the entire technology market. Its report will largely reflect the state of the digital advertising market and the effectiveness of expenditures in new areas (metaverse, AI). Given the tremendous rise in Meta's shares since the beginning of the year, stock market investors will particularly assess whether the company will meet the high profitability expectations.
• Microsoft (MSFT) – another mega-cap entity whose results influence the entire S&P 500 index. Microsoft is important for several reasons: it reflects trends in corporate IT spending (through Azure and software) and serves as a key driver of the AI theme. Any surprises – positive or negative – from Microsoft resonate across global exchanges, making this stock analytics of the mega-company worthy of special attention.
• Vertiv (VRT) – though smaller in size than giants, its dynamics could become a “dark horse.” Vertiv is directly connected to the hot topic of AI: its equipment is required by all data centers being built for neural network training. Vertiv shares have already more than doubled since the beginning of the year on expectations of strong demand. The market now awaits confirmation of these forecasts in the report. If Vertiv meets growth expectations and provides an optimistic outlook, it will strengthen investor confidence in the entire "AI infrastructure suppliers" segment (which includes other companies supplying infrastructure).
• Carvana (CVNA) – an example of a high-risk asset with the potential for significant movement. After a dramatic drop and an unexpected recovery, this online car dealer has become a favorite among some speculators. Now that the company is approaching its first quarterly profit in a long time, its shares could either soar on euphoria or crash if reality falls short of expectations. Carvana’s report will not only determine the fate of the company but will also provide indirect signals about the health of American consumer demand for expensive goods (cars) and accessibility of credit. Thus, it is worth watching CVNA even if you are not investing directly in its shares, to gain a broader perspective.

General Market Expectations and Investor Sentiment

Ahead of trading on July 30, investor sentiment can be characterized as cautiously optimistic. Despite numerous sources of uncertainty (the concluding Fed meeting, a packed corporate earnings report calendar, geopolitical risks), the US stock market displays notable resilience. Indices have approached historical highs, and the VIX volatility index remains in relative low “calm” ranges. This indicates that market participants are not preemptively pricing in negativity—rather, hope for a “soft landing” for the economy and sustained corporate activity prevails.

Nevertheless, the level of uncertainty remains high. Each key factor could change sentiment. A dovish tone from the Fed and strong financial results from tech giants could amplify a rally in risk assets—investors may not want to miss potential gains and continue pouring money into the stock market. Conversely, any negative surprise (such as an unexpectedly “hawkish” tone from the Fed hinting at further rate hikes, or disappointment from the reports of Meta and Microsoft) is fraught with volatility spikes and quick profit-taking. Overall, in the early weeks of the earnings season, most companies have exceeded analysts' earnings forecasts, supporting a positive backdrop. If current events confirm this trend, the mood will remain buoyant. Investment strategies among participants currently balance between the fear of missing out and concerns about surprises, therefore trading may occur nervously—with sharp movements in individual stocks on news, but without panic in the market as a whole.

Conclusion: Key Risks and Opportunities for Investors

In conclusion, July 30, 2025, combines significant opportunities and risks for investors. Notable opportunities include the chance to confirm stable economic growth and corporate profits: strong macro data and successful quarterly earnings reports from leading companies will reinforce confidence that the market can continue to grow. In this case, many will see additional investment opportunities—for instance, the tech sector could reach new highs, while financial or industrial companies receive support from an improved GDP outlook. Meanwhile, gold and bonds are likely to remain calm, barring new inflationary threats.

However, risks cannot be ignored. The key risk of the day is misjudging the market's response to the Fed's decisions. Even if the rate is maintained, any abrupt comments from Powell could alter expectations and trigger sell-offs in the bond market, which would spill over into equities. Another risk is the concentration of negative surprises in corporate earnings: if several large companies (especially in the tech sector) disappoint, the Nasdaq could drag down the other US exchanges. External factors should not be overlooked either: for example, trade disputes (the deadline for new US tariffs has been mentioned as August 1) or geopolitical issues could suddenly come to the fore and adjust risk appetite.

For CIS investors focused on the global market, today is a good test of diversification and endurance. It is recommended to monitor news feeds in real-time: timely stock analytics and economic releases will assist in making informed decisions. The main advice is to avoid emotional responses. Short-term fluctuations are inevitable, but if your investment theses remain unchanged and companies demonstrate healthy business (even if sometimes with profit dips), such volatility moments can present interesting entry points. Ultimately, effective asset allocation and attention to financial outcomes are the best responses to any market uncertainty.