U.S. stock futures showed a mixed pattern on Friday amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns over oil supply disruptions. Investors are also awaiting a key inflation data set, which could influence Federal Reserve policy.
As of 4:50 P.M. (GMT+7), Dow Jones Industrial Average futures ticked down by 0.06%, or 27.30 points, to 46,705.20 points, while S&P 500 futures added slightly by 0.01%, or 0.90 points, to 6,673.50 points. Nasdaq 100 futures, however, fell by 0.04%, or 9.10 points, to 24,524.50 points.
The latest spike in energy prices has been driven by Iranian actions impeding oil supply, despite reassurances from Donald Trump’s administration and the International Energy Agency about potential reserve releases.
At last check, Brent crude was up 0.71% to $101.17 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered around $96 after increasing to around $98. As Iran has suggested oil could reach $200 a barrel, recent U.S. steps—such as a second waiver for sanctioned imports of Russian oil—are seen as only partially easing supply concerns.
Analysts indicated these measures will provide some relief but are unlikely to resolve the broader disruption, especially as Iran’s new leadership signals intentions to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. This renewed oil rally has combined with inflation worries to lead traders to adjust expectations for monetary policy. The likelihood of Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026 has diminished.
The market is now awaiting the release of the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index—regarded as the central bank’s preferred gauge of inflation. Also forthcoming is a revised figure for fourth-quarter U.S. GDP growth, after the initial estimate fell short of forecasts, as well as an early reading on consumer confidence for March.
