Stock Market Midday, Aug. 26: Markets Muted as Investors Await Nvidia Earnings

July inflation accelerated to 3.7%, topping forecasts and dragging major indexes lower on Aug. 26, 2026. The Nasdaq and Dow both declined while the S&P 500 traded flat. Market focus has shifted to NVDA's after-hours earnings report, viewed as a key test for whether AI-driven gains can continue.

ANF rocketed 40% after reporting strong quarterly earnings. META faced headwinds following a $17 billion legal settlement. BABA slid on news of a $10 billion share placement that will dilute existing holders.

The inflation print pressured rate-cut expectations, though traders remained in wait-and-see mode ahead of NVDA's results. The chipmaker's guidance will offer the clearest signal yet on enterprise AI demand and whether the infrastructure buildout is accelerating or plateauing.