WILL THE FED HINT AT A SEPTEMBER RATE CUT? The Fed is expected to keep rates steady at its July 30 meeting, with only a 4.7% chance of a cut, according to Yardeni Research. Strong June jobs data has delayed expectations for a near-term move, but softer inflation reports could push the Fed toward signaling a possible rate cut in September. A dovish tone next week may lift stocks, which are already gaining from stronger-than-expected Q2 earnings. Yardeni notes S&P 500 forward earnings hit a record 284.36 last week, with a year-end target of 300, and expects the index to continue reaching new highs despite valuation concerns.(*Walter Bloomberg)