U.S. stock index futures were mixed on Friday as investors awaited the latest consumer price index (CPI) and producer price index (PPI) reports for cues on the Federal Reserve's monetary policy path. While Dow futures were up, Nasdaq futures were down in the aftermath.
Investors are closely monitoring inflation data as it could impact the Fed's decision to taper its bond-buying program. A high CPI reading could mean the central bank will tighten monetary policy sooner than expected, which could weigh on stocks.
Inflation has been a key concern for investors in recent months as prices for goods and services have risen amid supply chain disruptions and labor shortages. The Fed has maintained that the current bout of inflation is transitory and will eventually ease.
U.S. stock index futures were flat on Friday as investors steered clear of big bets ahead of crucial inflation data, amid receding fears of an imminent tapering of stimulus by the Federal Reserve.
The S&P 500 ended higher on Monday, lifted by energy stocks following surprise cuts to the oil output by OPEC+. However, the Nasdaq Composite underperformed, dragged down by big tech names.
On Wednesday evening, U.S. stock futures were trading slightly higher after major benchmark averages closed lower during the regular session. Investors are waiting for the latest CPI and PPI reports to gauge the health of the economy.
Investors are also keeping an eye on corporate earnings, with several big names set to report this week, including Tesla, Microsoft, and Amazon. Strong earnings could help offset concerns about inflation and support the stock market.
U.S. stock futures fell during Sunday's evening deals, after major benchmark averages finished the week on a mixed note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 ended higher, while the Nasdaq Composite closed lower.
Stocks were modestly higher ahead of Wednesday's CPI inflation report, in line with the sentiment seen in the past few days. Investors are hoping for a Goldilocks scenario, where inflation is not too high to cause the Fed to tighten monetary policy but not too low to signal weakness in the economy.
U.S. stock futures were trading slightly higher during Monday's evening deals, extending gains from the previous session. However, investors remain cautious ahead of the latest CPI and PPI reports, which could roil the markets.
