Stock Market Today, July 29: Stocks Slide on Hawkish Fed and Increased Middle East Tensions

Major U.S. stock indices declined on July 29, 2026, as the Federal Reserve held rates steady but three officials voted for a hike, signaling a hawkish stance. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a surprise Iran missile attack further pressured equities. The S&P 500 fell 1.52%, the Dow dropped 2.19%, and the Nasdaq declined 1.74%. Energy stocks gained on higher oil prices, while industrials and technology sectors suffered significant losses.