Stock Futures Dip Amid Economic and Geopolitical Concerns

U.S. stock index futures slipped as markets awaited data on the economic outlook and potential interest-rate cuts from the Federal Reserve. Investor caution was driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Key economic indicators to be released include unemployment figures and the services sector activity report.

U.S. stock index futures saw a decline on Thursday as investors prepared for upcoming economic reports that will offer insights into the nation's financial climate and potential interest-rate adjustments from the Federal Reserve. Stock market participants remained vigilant while monitoring escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Despite closing flat in the previous session, Wall Street's primary indexes reflected investor caution due to a private labor market survey and concerns over how the United States and Israel might respond to Iran's recent actions. The CBOE volatility index elevated, indicating heightened market anxiety.

Key upcoming reports include unemployment figures expected to rise slightly and the nonfarm payroll data. Economists will also focus on an important survey of the U.S. services sector. A notable focus was on tech stocks benefiting from AI advancements, with cautious optimism prevailing ahead of Federal Reserve discussions and potential central bank rate cuts.

(With inputs from agencies.)