Stocks Set to Open Higher as Investors Stay Calm Despite Venezuela Tumult, U.S. Jobs Data Awaited

Economic Outlook - Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson indicated that the central bank could cut interest rates further if inflation eases, with potential modest adjustments later in the year if inflation moderates and growth stabilizes around 2% [1] - The U.S. December S&P Global manufacturing PMI remained unchanged at 51.8, aligning with expectations [1] Market Performance - In Friday's trading session, Wall Street's major equity averages closed mixed, with chip stocks like Micron Technology surging over +10% and Lam Research climbing more than +8% [2] - ASML Holding N.V. advanced over +8% after a double-upgrade to Buy from Sell with a price target of $1,500 [2] - Energy stocks rallied in pre-market trading after President Trump proposed a U.S.-led effort to revive Venezuela's oil industry, with SLB up nearly +10% and Halliburton up more than +8% [15] Upcoming Economic Data - Investors are focused on the upcoming U.S. nonfarm payrolls report, which will provide insights into the labor market and the timing of the Fed's next interest-rate cut [6] - Additional reports, including JOLTs Job Openings and ADP Nonfarm Employment Change, will offer further insights into labor market health [6] International Developments - The U.S. military operation that ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has heightened geopolitical risks, leading to a rise in gold and silver prices [4] - China's Shanghai Composite Index closed higher, driven by semiconductor and AI-related stocks, while concerns over oil access due to U.S. actions in Venezuela affected energy stocks [11]