US stocks rise to finish a wild July as Amazon soars, Apple sinks and inflation worries worsen

U.S. stocks rose Friday to cap a volatile July as Amazon surged 15.3% on stronger-than-expected profits and AI investment signals, while Apple fell 7.4% despite beating earnings forecasts due to weak revenue guidance. The S&P 500 climbed 0.7% to 7,489.72, the Dow added 0.5% and the Nasdaq rallied 1%, though the month finished with a tiny loss as rising oil prices tied to Middle East tensions renewed inflation concerns. Higher crude costs lifted gasoline to an average $4.11 per gallon, up from $3.85 a month prior.