📝 Executive Summary
U.S. equities retreated in midday trading as Brent crude prices climbed above $100 per barrel, fueling renewed inflation concerns and rate hike expectations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led the decline with a 0.73% drop, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also posted losses. Investors are weighing the impact of geopolitical instability on energy costs and the Federal Reserve's upcoming policy decision.