Mumbai, Aug. 18 -- The Dow inched up 34.86 points (0.1%) to 44,946.12, the S&P 500 fell 18.74 points (0.3%) to 6,449.80 and the Nasdaq slid 87.69 points (0.4%) to 21,622.98.

The broader markets weakened after a mixed batch of U.S. economic data created uncertainty around the economic outlook and interest rates. The Commerce Department reported that retail sales rose 0.5% in July, matching expectations, following an upwardly revised 0.9% gain in June. However, sentiment took a hit as the University of Michigan reported an unexpected deterioration in consumer confidence for August. This contrast between steady retail activity and weakening sentiment has added to market caution.

Excluding sales by motor vehicle and parts dealers, retail sa...