U.S. stock markets dipped on Monday after a rocky end on Friday, and investors face more uncertainty this week.

© Jeenah Moon/Reuters

Factors like inflation, interest rates, A.I. and the war with Iran are far more important, our columnist says.

Factors like inflation, interest rates, A.I. and the war with Iran are far more important, our columnist says.

Inflation is moving in the wrong direction and the labor market remains stable, a combination that bolsters the case for higher interest rates.

© Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters

Inflation is moving in the wrong direction and the labor market remains stable, a combination that bolsters the case for higher interest rates.

© Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters

Moody’s held the country’s credit rating steady amid political uncertainty and a rise in borrowing costs that have worsened France’s debt situation.

© Pool photo by Teresa Suarez