FX.co ★ US Stocks Slide on Trade Jitters and Fed Watch

U.S. equities experienced a decline on Tuesday as investor confidence was shaken due to President Donald Trump's uncertain position on trade talks and the commencement of the Federal Reserve's two-day policy meeting. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq decreased by 0.5% and 0.6%, respectively, while the Dow Jones fell by more than 300 points. Trump's reversal from earlier promises of immediate trade agreements, suggesting, "we don't have to sign deals," contradicted recent comments by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and lowered expectations for relief from tariffs. Additionally, tensions were highlighted by a contentious exchange between Trump and the newly elected Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney. Carney's assertion that, "Canada is not for sale," received a retort from Trump, who remarked, "Never say never." The Federal Reserve is anticipated to maintain steady interest rates; however, traders will focus intently on Chairman Powell's economic outlook as tariffs continue to pose significant concerns. Major technology companies saw their stock values fall, with Meta declining by 1.5% and Tesla's shares dropping over 2% due to disappointing European sales figures.