US stocks extended their gains for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) rising 0.3% to remain near the 47,000 level. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also climbed approximately 0.3%, reflecting cautious optimism ahead of the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision. Market participants remain focused on the Fed’s potential policy shift, with speculation about a rate cut in the coming months tempering broader market volatility. The modest gains highlight investor uncertainty as the market balances economic data with central bank policy expectations. Traders are closely monitoring inflation trends and labor market strength to gauge the Fed’s next move. A delayed rate cut could weigh on equity valuations, while an earlier reduction might provide a short-term boost to risk assets. The Fed’s decision will likely influence global capital flows and currency movements, particularly for the US dollar. For MENA investors, the Fed’s policy trajectory remains critical for Gulf equity markets and foreign portfolio flows. A dovish Fed could weaken the dollar, benefiting oil exporters and boosting regional stock markets. Key indicators to watch include the Fed’s statement on inflation progress and employment data. Gulf investors should also assess how global rate dynamics interact with OPEC+ oil price policies to shape regional economic stability.