The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) closed at $555.45 on December 17, down 0.42%, as the S&P 500 Index fell 0.39% to 6,050.61 amid cautious market sentiment. Investors are digesting strong U.S. retail sales data, which increased by 0.7% m/m in November, surpassing expectations and suggesting a resilient economy. This strength complicates the Federal Reserve's anticipated rate cut trajectory, especially with the incoming administration's proposed inflationary import tariffs. The market is also reacting to the Federal Reserve's two-day policy meeting, with expectations of a 25-basis-point rate cut. However, the trajectory for future months remains uncertain, adding to market volatility. The Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) rose to 15.12, reflecting increased market anxiety. Additionally, the Dow Jones Industrial Average posted its longest losing streak since 1978, further weighing on investor sentiment.