U.S. Markets Navigate Mixed Signals as Futures Dip After Two-Day Rally; Tech Earnings and Economic Data in Focus

Core Viewpoint - U.S. stock futures are showing a cautious tone as investors react to mixed corporate earnings and await key economic data, following a recent rally in the broader markets [1][2] Premarket Trading and Futures Movements - U.S. stock futures are trending modestly lower, with Nasdaq 100 futures down 0.15%, S&P 500 futures down 0.04%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures down 0.05% [2] - Global markets are mixed, with GIFT Nifty futures indicating a soft start for domestic indices, down 0.22% [2] Commodity Markets - Crude oil prices are up 0.66%, gold futures have risen 0.62%, and silver futures surged 3.25%, indicating ongoing inflation concerns or a flight to safety [3] Major Market Indexes Performance - U.S. stock indices closed positively, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average up 0.62% to 49,405.00 points, S&P 500 up 0.55% to 6,916 points, and Nasdaq Composite up 0.91% [4] - Despite recent gains, S&P 500 and Nasdaq are poised for their second consecutive weekly loss, with S&P 500 down 0.23% over the past month but up 13.35% year-over-year [5] Upcoming Market Events - Key economic data releases include S&P Global Composite PMI, Manufacturing PMI, and Services PMI for January at 09:45 AM ET, followed by Michigan inflation expectations and consumer sentiment at 10:00 AM ET [6] Corporate Earnings Reports - Notable companies reporting earnings include Schlumberger Limited, Ericsson, First Citizens BancShares, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Webster Financial, which may influence stock movements [7] Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy - Market participants are monitoring signals regarding future interest rate adjustments, with expectations of two quarter-point rate cuts in 2026, though the median projection suggests only one cut this year [8] Major Stock News - Intel Corporation shares fell over 10% after issuing weaker-than-expected guidance, impacting other semiconductor stocks [9] - Meta Platforms, Inc. surged 5.7%, while GE Aerospace shares fell 7.4% despite positive profit guidance [10] Other Corporate Developments - TikTok has finalized a deal to continue operating in the U.S. through a majority American-led joint venture [12] - CSX Corporation reported a decline in profit and revenue due to subdued industrial demand, while Alcoa Corporation posted higher profits [12] - Tesla's CEO set an ambitious target for Optimus robots, potentially adding $20 trillion to Tesla's valuation [13]