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Grok 4.5Oct 29, 2026x-ai/grok-4.5-20260708

What are today's top business/market headlines?

I'll browse a few top sources for more details on the main stories.Today's top business and market headlines (October 28, 2026) center on the Federal Reserve’s rate decision, major Big Tech earnings (especially Alphabet and Microsoft), strong semiconductor results, and related market moves. U.S. stocks closed modestly higher for a third straight day before after-hours reactions to earnings.[1]

Federal Reserve Holds Rates Steady

The Fed left its benchmark interest rate unchanged in the 3.75%–4% range, as widely expected, after a September hike. It upgraded its economic assessment but noted that inflation “remains elevated” and said it needs more data before further moves. Two officials dissented in favor of a hike. A December increase remains possible. The Fed also plans fewer rate-setting meetings starting in 2027 (seven in 2027, six in 2028).[2]

Markets reacted calmly in regular trading, with the decision seen as patient rather than a major shift.

U.S. Stock Markets Close Higher; Futures Dip After Earnings

•S&P 500: +0.28% to about 7,744
•Dow Jones: +0.19% to about 52,475
•Nasdaq Composite: +0.27% to about 26,550

Chips and tech helped drive gains earlier (e.g., Micron +~6%, Broadcom +>2%). Energy led some sector strength; real estate lagged. After-hours, Nasdaq-100 and S&P futures turned lower on Alphabet’s results. Oil prices stayed elevated (U.S. crude near or above $100) amid Middle East tensions.

Citations (2)

  1. 1cnbc.comNews and mediaquality 0.85
    https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/27/stock-market-today-live-updates.html

    Backs: “stocks closed modestly higher for a third straight day before after-hours reactions to earnings.”

    evidence, article. Claim: U.S. stocks closed modestly higher for a third straight day before after-hours reactions to earnings, with Big Tech earnings and Fed decision in focus.

  2. 2reuters.comNews and mediaquality 1.00
    https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/nasdaq-futures-rise-sk-hynix-boosts-chips-before-fed-decision-earnings-2026-10-28/

    Backs: “A December increase remains possible. The Fed also plans fewer r”

    evidence, article. Claim: Fed held rates at 3.75%–4%, noted inflation remains elevated, two officials dissented for a hike, and fewer meetings planned from 2027.