U.S. Stock Futures Edge Higher Ahead of Big Tech Earnings and Fed Decision

U.S. stock index futures moved slightly higher on Tuesday evening after a weak Wall Street session, as investors turned their attention to upcoming Big Tech earnings and the Federal Reserve’s policy decision. S&P 500 Futures rose 0.2% to 7,185.75, Nasdaq 100 Futures gained 0.4% to 27,278.0, and Dow Jones Futures increased 0.2% to 49,407.0, reflecting cautious market sentiment.

In the regular session, major indexes closed lower, with the S&P 500 declining 0.5% and the Nasdaq Composite falling 0.9%, retreating from recent record highs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.1%. Technology stocks led the downturn as concerns about artificial intelligence demand resurfaced. A Wall Street Journal report indicated that OpenAI missed internal revenue and user targets, raising doubts about continued heavy investment in AI infrastructure and data centers.

Semiconductor and AI-related stocks were among the biggest losers, including Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, and Broadcom. Investor sentiment was further pressured by rising oil prices, driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Geopolitical tensions added uncertainty after comments from former President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s situation, contributing to volatility in energy markets.

Market focus is now on earnings from the “Magnificent Seven,” including Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Amazon, and Alphabet, all set to report after Wednesday’s closing bell. Apple is scheduled to release its results later in the week. Investors will closely analyze whether these companies can justify aggressive AI-related spending amid recent tech sector volatility.

Attention is also centered on the Federal Reserve’s two-day policy meeting. While interest rates are expected to remain unchanged, investors are looking for signals from Fed Chair Jerome Powell on inflation trends and economic outlook, particularly as rising oil prices and global tensions continue to impact markets.