S&P 500 ends slightly higher after Fed cuts, gives mixed signals

``The S&P 500 ended marginally higher on Wednesday after Federal Reserve policymakers cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point, as expected, but gave mixed signals about their next move. With continued economic growth and strong hiring "the most likely outcomes," the Fed nevertheless cited "uncertainties" about the outlook and pledged to "act as appropriate" to sustain the expansion.'' -- The fundamental problem is that the Fed wants it "all ways" -- soft conditions to justify easing monetary policy, but also sticking with the partyline story that the economy is strong.