This year's stock rally faces a critical test as Microsoft and Meta Platforms report earnings on the same day the Fed delivers an unusually unpredictable interest-rate decision. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite both fell last week for the second consecutive week, weighed by familiar threats despite predictions of an AI-driven hiring wipeout failing to materialize. Companies across tech, transportation and defense are hiring again, offering a bright spot for investors.

Meanwhile, America's big cities are rapidly losing children. The number of kids under 18 in large U.S. cities has dropped 6% over the past decade, compared to a 1% decline nationwide. Even cities gaining total population are losing children, according to a Journal analysis. With the national fertility rate at record lows, families cite costs, safety and quality-of-life concerns for leaving urban areas, while a growing number of childless residents opt to stay that way.