Profit-Taking Pulls Down Stocks as Inflation Concerns Loom

Major U.S. stock indexes declined as investors took profits amid concerns over U.S. inflation data. European stocks also fell, with worries about potential global growth impacts from proposed U.S. policies under President-elect Trump. U.S. Treasury yields rising, further impacting equities. Key economic data is on investors' radar.

Wall Street's three major indexes ended lower Tuesday as investors capitalized on profits following a post-election surge and anticipated U.S. inflation data. The indexes had reached record highs since the Nov. 5 election, fueled by optimism over President-elect Trump's proposed tax cuts and potential relaxed regulatory policies.

However, investor sentiment waned, concerned that the new U.S. administration's policies might intensify inflation. European shares fell by 2% as European Central Bank warned that proposed tariffs could impede global growth. Stocks poised for gains under Trump saw declines; Tesla, for instance, fell 6% after significant post-election increases.

As U.S. Treasury yields rose, equities were pressured by bond investor reactions to Trump's policy prospects. Meanwhile, economic data, including consumer price inflation, looms with potential investment risks. The Dow dropped 382 points, influenced by Amgen's late-session sell-off. Industry sectors like materials and healthcare led declines, while communications services posted gains.

(With inputs from agencies.)