U.S. Stocks End Mixed Amid Tariff Concerns and Weakening Demand

US stocks end mixed as fresh signs of economic strain and inflationary pressure from tariffs unsettle investors. The Dow falls 0.22%, while the Nasdaq Composite rises 0.32%. Markets digest discouraging economic data, including a surprise contraction in the services sector and a surge in prices paid index. The labor market may be entering a more fragile phase. Investors await Friday's Nonfarm Payrolls report for further clarity on the Fed's policy trajectory.