U.S. stock futures increased on Thursday, following a subdued session that ended the Dow Jones Industrial Average’s recent rally. Market participants are closely watching for upcoming inflation data and employment updates.
As of 4:54 P.M. (GMT+7), Dow Jones Industrial Average futures edged up by 0.38%, or 191.00 points, to 50,312.40 points, while S&P 500 futures ticked up by 0.32%, or 22.10 points, to 6,963.50 points. As for Nasdaq 100 futures, the index increased marginally by 0.25%, or 62.20 points, to 25,263.50 points.
Investor focus is turning to Friday’s Consumer Price Index release, a major inflation measure favored by the Federal Reserve. Should the data indicate easing price pressures while growth remains steady, it could reinforce current market optimism.
Weekly jobless claims that due today are also in focus following stronger-than-expected January payrolls, which rose by 130,000, as the unemployment rate dipped to 4.3%, easing labor market concerns. Persistently strong hiring and lingering inflationary trends are seen as reducing the odds of imminent rate reductions by the central bank, a factor that has played a central role in recent stock momentum.
In corporate news, shares of Cisco Systems dropped around 8% to USD 78.79 per share following a disappointing outlook. McDonald’s, meanwhile, recorded minor losses despite surpassing earnings estimates. Additionally, markets will watch for earnings results from Coinbase, Applied Materials, and Rivian, all scheduled for release after the U.S. market closes.
