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U.S. stock index futures moved lower on Monday evening as growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding U.S.-Iran negotiations weighed on investor sentiment. Concerns over a prolonged conflict, rising oil prices, and potential disruptions to global energy supplies prompted traders to adopt a more cautious stance after Wall Street recently reached record highs.
S&P 500 Futures declined 0.2% to 40,459.75, while Nasdaq 100 Futures dropped 0.35% to 30,457.75. Dow Jones Futures also fell 0.3% to 51,002.0 during late trading.
Market anxiety intensified after Iranian media reported that Tehran had suspended indirect negotiations with the United States and was considering measures to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments. The report cited Iran’s frustration over ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon. A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could significantly impact global energy markets and fuel prices.
President Donald Trump delivered mixed messages regarding the status of the talks. During an interview with CNBC, Trump suggested he was unconcerned if negotiations had ended. However, he later stated on social media that discussions with Iran were continuing at a rapid pace. Reports also indicated that Iran may be pursuing an interim agreement with Washington. Trump additionally revealed that he had advised Israel against launching a major operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The latest developments follow another round of airstrikes exchanged between Iran and Israel, further testing a fragile ceasefire and reducing expectations for a comprehensive peace agreement. As a result, oil prices advanced, adding to concerns about inflation and broader economic risks.
Despite geopolitical uncertainty, Wall Street closed at fresh record highs on Monday, driven largely by artificial intelligence-related stocks. The S&P 500 gained 0.3% to 7,600.02, the Nasdaq Composite rose 0.4% to 27,086.81, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.1% to 51,078.94.
Semiconductor stocks remained a key source of strength. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index climbed 1.1%, supported by a 6.3% surge in NVIDIA shares after the company introduced several new AI chips, including products designed for Microsoft Windows-powered computers.
However, signs emerged that the AI-driven technology rally may be losing momentum after a strong performance in recent months. Several major technology companies, including Tesla, Amazon, Apple, and Alphabet, ended the session lower. Alphabet also slipped in after-hours trading after announcing plans to raise $80 billion through equity offerings and investment-related transactions.
Investors will continue monitoring developments in the Middle East, oil market movements, and the performance of AI-related stocks as they assess the outlook for U.S. equities and the broader global economy.
