U.S. stocks moved higher in afternoon trading on Friday as investors waited for a fresh round of economic data that could shape the outlook for interest rates and growth. The market advance reflected cautious positioning rather than a broad shift in sentiment, with traders focused on upcoming inflation and employment reports.

The three major U.S. indexes climbed as participants looked ahead to signals on how quickly prices are rising and whether the labor market remains resilient. Those reports are likely to influence expectations for the Federal Reserve’s next moves, especially if they point to sticky inflation or a cooling economy.

Market activity remained measured as investors balanced optimism about economic stability against uncertainty over the path of monetary policy. Some sectors saw modest buying, but the overall tone suggested that many traders preferred to wait for the data before making larger bets.

The session underscored how closely Wall Street is tracking each new economic release. With inflation and jobs figures due soon, analysts say the data could set the tone for stocks, bonds, and rate expectations in the days ahead.