U.S. stock futures showed little movement on Tuesday evening as investors awaited further clarity on President Donald Trump’s upcoming trade tariff decisions. Market participants are also closely monitoring key economic indicators that could influence Federal Reserve policy.
Following a slightly positive session on Wall Street, major stock indexes remained largely stable. Gains in leading technology stocks helped offset losses in other sectors, while weaker-than-expected consumer confidence data for March raised concerns over private spending trends.
As of 19:26 ET (23:26 GMT):
- S&P 500 Futures rose 0.1% to 5,831.25 points
- Nasdaq 100 Futures increased 0.1% to 20,517.50 points
- Dow Jones Futures remained steady at 42,917.0 points
Trump’s Tariff Plans Add to Market Uncertainty
Trade policy remains a focal point as the April 2 deadline for new U.S. tariffs approaches. Reports suggest that Trump may adopt a less aggressive stance than initially expected, providing some support for market sentiment. However, the president continues to hint at broader tariffs, including potential duties on automobile imports, lumber, and semiconductors.
Key points on tariffs:
- Trump is expected to announce reciprocal tariffs targeting 15 major trading partners
- The scope and impact of these tariffs remain unclear
- Markets are closely watching for sector-specific tariff implications
Despite these concerns, investors appear cautiously optimistic that the administration will pursue a measured approach, mitigating potential economic disruptions.
Wall Street Extends Gains for Third Consecutive Session
Major U.S. stock indexes recorded their third straight day of gains on Tuesday, driven primarily by strength in the technology sector.
- Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) climbed over 3%, despite a continued decline in European sales.
- Six of the Magnificent Seven stocks advanced, with NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) being the sole exception.
- GameStop (NYSE: GME) surged 8% in after-hours trading following the announcement of a Bitcoin investment plan.
S&P 500: +0.2% to 5,776.62 points
NASDAQ Composite: +0.5% to 18,271.86 points
Dow Jones Industrial Average: +0.1% to 42,587.50 points
Investors are maintaining a cautious yet bullish stance, awaiting further cues on monetary policy and trade developments.
Upcoming Economic Reports and Federal Reserve Signals
Markets are preparing for several key economic releases that could provide insights into U.S. economic growth and inflation trends.
Upcoming reports:
- Wednesday: Durable goods orders (February)
- Thursday: Revised Q4 GDP data
- Friday: PCE Price Index (Fed’s preferred inflation gauge)
Additionally, multiple Federal Reserve officials, including Chicago Fed President Neel Kashkari and Richmond Fed President Tom Barkin, are scheduled to speak. Their statements could offer guidance on the Fed’s stance on interest rates amid ongoing concerns about inflation and economic slowdown.
As markets navigate trade policy uncertainty and economic data releases, investor sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, with a keen focus on potential risks and opportunities ahead.
