U.S. stock futures are struggling for direction early Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) futures edging lower as investors await Nvidia’s earnings report.
The chipmaker, which has become the poster child of the AI boom, will report after the bell and could set the tone for markets heading into the final stretch of August.
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Dow futures: slightly lower
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S&P 500 futures: hovering near record territory
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Nasdaq futures: modestly weaker
Global and Political Backdrop
Sentiment is also being shaped by political tensions. Fresh attacks on the Federal Reserve from former President Donald Trump have rattled markets, adding a layer of uncertainty over future rate policy.
Meanwhile, overseas markets were mixed—Chinese benchmarks slid, while European equities opened cautiously higher—reflecting the global anticipation of U.S. earnings and economic data later this week.
Key Drivers for Investors Today
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Nvidia Earnings in Focus
Nvidia’s results will reveal whether AI demand can sustain its meteoric rise. A beat could propel the Nasdaq and spill over into the Dow; a miss could spark a broad selloff. -
Federal Reserve Uncertainty
Political criticism of the Fed and its policymakers has investors wary of potential policy shifts. Bond yields have eased slightly, signaling a bid for safety. -
Commodities & the Dollar
Oil prices are pulling back, helping inflation expectations, while the dollar has weakened against major currencies, giving global markets some relief. -
Sector Spotlight
Tech stocks remain the market’s swing factor, while aerospace and defense names are showing relative strength.
Market Outlook
The Dow could see a muted open if futures trends persist, but volatility is expected once earnings cross the tape.
With Nvidia set to report after the close and key U.S. inflation data still ahead, Wednesday may prove to be a pivotal day for market sentiment.
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