US Stock Futures Rise Ahead of Jackson Hole and Retail Earnings
US stock futures moved slightly higher on Monday. S&P 500 futures gained 0.1% to trade near 6,479, Nasdaq 100 futures were up 0.2% around 23,845, and Dow Jones futures rose 0.1% to about 45,085.
Rate Cut Expectations
The focus this week is on the Jackson Hole Symposium, where Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is expected to speak. Traders are betting on a September Fed rate cut of 25 basis points, with market odds above 80%. Cooling US jobs data and softer consumer inflation have supported these expectations. However, stronger producer price inflation has kept some investors cautious.
Global Market Mood
Global markets are showing strength. Asian stocks are rallying, with Japan’s Nikkei and Taiwan’s indexes hitting record highs, while Chinese blue chips reached their highest level in 10 months. European futures are steady, supported by strong corporate earnings and hopes of easier monetary policy worldwide.
Retail Earnings Watch
Investors are also waiting for key retail earnings from Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowe’s. These reports will give important signals on US consumer spending and could influence the outlook for the Fed rate cut.
Impact:
Markets might stay positive if Powell sounds dovish at Jackson Hole. Strong retail earnings could boost confidence, while any hawkish Fed tone may bring volatility.
