U.S. stock futures dropped on Thursday as investors weighed persistent unrest in the Middle East and looked to maintain momentum following the previous session’s recovery.
As of 4:42 P.M. (GMT+7), Dow Jones Industrial Average futures decreased by 0.22%, or 105.80 points, to 48,633.60 points, while S&P 500 futures fell by 0.14%, or 9.30 points, to 6,860.20 points. Nasdaq 100 futures also slipped by 0.10%, or 23.90 points, to 25,069.80 points.
These shifts came amid ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, where escalated actions involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran continue for a sixth consecutive day. While the conflict showed little sign of immediate resolution, some reports suggested that Iranian officials had signaled a willingness to engage in preliminary discussions with the U.S. regarding potential de-escalation.
The turmoil in the region has directly impacted global oil supplies, given Iran’s role as a major oil producer within OPEC. Concerns that diminished Iranian output could push petroleum prices higher have increased speculation about possible adjustments to interest rate policy by the Federal Reserve in a highly fluid market environment.
Energy markets reflected these dynamics, with oil prices stabilizing after a period of pronounced gains. Worries over restricted supply were somewhat moderated after President Donald Trump vowed to provide risk coverage and navy escorts for commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf.
With oil carriers able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, petroleum supply is expected to increase, which should ease prices. By Thursday, West Texas Intermediate crude hovered near $76 per barrel, while benchmark Brent crude was trading above $82.
Market participants were also monitoring additional data and corporate results. The latest weekly jobless claims numbers are due, alongside earnings reports from firms including Kroger, Costco, and Marvell Technology.
