US stocks moved modestly higher on Friday as investors weighed fresh economic data and looked ahead to next week’s Federal Reserve meeting. The cautious tone reflected a market that is waiting for clearer guidance on the path of interest rates.

Major indexes opened in positive territory, but gains were limited as traders stayed focused on whether policymakers will signal any shift in their outlook. Recent data has kept attention on inflation, growth, and the timing of possible rate moves.

The session added to a familiar pattern on Wall Street: small swings, tight trading, and heightened sensitivity to central bank comments. Investors have been balancing hopes for policy easing against signs that the economy remains resilient.

With the Fed decision approaching, markets are expected to remain driven by expectations rather than broad risk-taking. Analysts say the next set of signals from the central bank could shape trading for the rest of the month.