Apple's Dominance Shifts Focus of Stock Traders in Crucial Week

Stock traders are facing a pivotal week as Apple's Thursday earnings report takes the spotlight away from the Federal Reserve's interest-rate decision. Concerns about Apple's slump in smartphone sales and a revenue decline are mounting, with the stock already on track for a third-straight losing month. The performance of big tech companies, including Apple, has been crucial in supporting the stock market this year, so any weakness in their earnings could have a significant impact. Additionally, investors will be closely watching the Fed's decision and Chair Jerome Powell's remarks for hints on the economic outlook. Other factors, such as the escalating conflict in the Gaza strip and the US Treasury's announcement on bond sales, are also contributing to global risk.