The stock market began the week on a mixed note, with indicators like the Dow and S&P 500 showing slight declines while the Nasdaq managed to hold onto modest gains. Traders are now focused on the Federal Reserve’s annual Jackson Hole symposium, where Chair Jerome Powell is expected to speak. Market expectations are high that the Fed could signal a 25-basis-point interest rate cut in September, with market futures reflecting over an 80% chance of such a move. However, the Fed faces pressure to maintain its independence, especially given escalating political dynamics as President Trump actively engages in international diplomacy. Global markets are also reacting to these developments.