U.S. Stock Futures Open Mixed Amid Political and Economic Factors
U.S. stock futures opened Thursday trading in mixed directions, reflecting the impact of political and economic factors that continue to influence investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.5%, equivalent to more than 500 points, while the S&P 500 gained 0.3% and the Nasdaq advanced 0.4%, after a sharp correction in the technology sector the previous day.
Markets are still absorbing comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, who reinforced concerns about the trade tariffs. In a speech in Chicago, Powell said the Fed could face a “challenging scenario” with tariffs raising inflation while also putting pressure on economic growth.
In addition, Powell cooled expectations for immediate interest rate cuts, saying the central bank will “wait for greater clarity” on the trade policy adopted by Donald Trump’s administration before acting. This stance generated immediate reactions in the market, especially after Trump again publicly criticized the Fed chairman for his pessimistic view.
Nvidia shares also fell on Wednesday after reports that the United States was planning to impose new restrictions on the company’s sales to China. Despite a steep drop earlier, the chipmaker’s shares were holding steady early Thursday.
Investors remain attentive to the combination of trade tensions, statements from the Federal Reserve and movements in the technology sector, factors that continue to shape the behavior of the North American stock market.
At the time of publication, the price of Bitcoin was quoted at US$84,462.61, up 1% in the last 24 hours.