US stocks end lower on inflation, earnings worries

NEW YORK, Aug 1 (Reuters) U.S. stocks closed lower on Tuesday after news of an uptick in inflation strengthened expectations the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates for an 18th straight time next week while mixed quarterly results cooled investor enthusiasm for shares.

The Nasdaq declined more than 1 percent following disappointing financial results from some companies, including Whole Foods Market.

The Dow Jones industrial average was down 59.95 points, or 0.54 percent, at 11,125.73. The Standard&Poor's 500 Index was down 5.74 points, or 0.45 percent, at 1,270.92. The Nasdaq Composite Index was down 29.48 points, or 1.41 percent, at 2,061.99.

REUTERS VJ BST0145