S&P 500 futures rise as markets seek stability after volatility
Press Hub UCapital
Share:
S&P 500 futures posted modest gains in pre-market trading, rising 0.2% as investors sought to reset their outlook following a turbulent February. The index rebounded 1.6% on Friday, closing the month down 0.7%, as markets absorbed political tensions and trade concerns.
Friday’s rally followed a contentious Oval Office meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Talks over a ceasefire and a mineral-related trade deal collapsed, with Trump stating that Zelensky was “not ready for peace.” Despite the geopolitical uncertainty, investors appeared willing to look past the turmoil and focus on broader economic drivers.
Trade policy remains a key concern, with Trump set to unveil further tariff measures this week. The proposed changes could significantly impact global trade, particularly for major U.S. partners. Reports suggest that Mexico and Canada may face a 25% import tax, while China could see its existing 10% tariff doubled to 20%. These developments have the potential to influence market sentiment and sector performance, particularly in industries sensitive to global supply chains.
The week ahead is packed with key economic data releases. Later today, the U.S. will report ISM manufacturing PMI figures, offering fresh insights into industrial activity and inflation trends. Private sector job growth data is scheduled for release on Tuesday, setting the stage for the most anticipated event of the week: Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report. Analysts expect the U.S. economy to have added 156,000 jobs in February, surpassing the 143,000 recorded in January. Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell is also set to speak after the labor data release, with investors closely monitoring his remarks for clues on future monetary policy direction.
With trade tensions escalating and economic data in focus, market participants will be assessing whether the S&P 500 can maintain its resilience or face renewed volatility in the coming sessions.
Friday’s rally followed a contentious Oval Office meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Talks over a ceasefire and a mineral-related trade deal collapsed, with Trump stating that Zelensky was “not ready for peace.” Despite the geopolitical uncertainty, investors appeared willing to look past the turmoil and focus on broader economic drivers.
Trade policy remains a key concern, with Trump set to unveil further tariff measures this week. The proposed changes could significantly impact global trade, particularly for major U.S. partners. Reports suggest that Mexico and Canada may face a 25% import tax, while China could see its existing 10% tariff doubled to 20%. These developments have the potential to influence market sentiment and sector performance, particularly in industries sensitive to global supply chains.
The week ahead is packed with key economic data releases. Later today, the U.S. will report ISM manufacturing PMI figures, offering fresh insights into industrial activity and inflation trends. Private sector job growth data is scheduled for release on Tuesday, setting the stage for the most anticipated event of the week: Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report. Analysts expect the U.S. economy to have added 156,000 jobs in February, surpassing the 143,000 recorded in January. Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell is also set to speak after the labor data release, with investors closely monitoring his remarks for clues on future monetary policy direction.
With trade tensions escalating and economic data in focus, market participants will be assessing whether the S&P 500 can maintain its resilience or face renewed volatility in the coming sessions.