Stock market today: Dow Jones, S&P 500, Nasdaq futures climb as investors await Fed decision after Nasdaq’s record close

Market Overview - US stock futures rose slightly as attention shifts to an important Federal Reserve meeting later this week, with Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 futures all increasing by 0.1% [1] - Major averages had a strong week, with the Nasdaq Composite reaching a new record, climbing 2% for consecutive weekly gains, while the S&P 500 advanced 1.6%, marking its best weekly performance since early August [2] Federal Reserve Expectations - Weak labor market signals and rising prices have heightened expectations for a potential interest rate cut at the upcoming Federal Reserve policy meeting, with Fed funds futures indicating a 96% chance of a quarter-point cut [3] - A rate cut could further support equities, especially amid ongoing enthusiasm for AI, despite concerns about a potential AI bubble [4] Earnings Season Highlights - The earnings season is nearing its end, with notable companies like FedEx and Cracker Barrel set to report results, which are viewed as indicators for global trade flows and the broader US economy [5] Nvidia Antitrust Investigation - Nvidia's stock fell approximately 2.2% following news of a preliminary investigation by China, which found the company in violation of antitrust laws [6] - This investigation adds pressure on US-China negotiations, which are currently ongoing [6] Gold Market Dynamics - Gold prices are approaching record levels, trading near $3,640 an ounce, supported by expectations of a quarter-point rate cut and a weaker dollar [6][7] - Gold has rallied nearly 40% this year, breaking out of a range-bound trading pattern, driven by geopolitical uncertainty and central bank buying [9]