Market Volatility Amid Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. stock index futures showed marginal growth as investors await crucial payrolls data, amidst geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Labor Department’s report may indicate steady job growth, influencing the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy. Key stock movements include Spirit Airlines' potential bankruptcy and Rivian's reduced forecast.

U.S. stock index futures remained flat to slightly positive on Friday, with investors refraining from major moves ahead of crucial payroll data and monitoring geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Labor Department's nonfarm payroll data, expected shortly, may further define the Federal Reserve's policy direction.

According to Derren Nathan from Hargreaves Lansdown, if employment numbers meet expectations, it could validate Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's inclination towards maintaining shallow rate cuts. With escalating global tensions, investors are looking for domestic economic reassurance.

Meanwhile, Spirit Airlines saw a sharp decline following bankruptcy talks speculation, and Rivian fell after lowering its production forecast. Rate-sensitive growth stocks like Tesla rose over 1%, while energy stocks increased amid fears of Middle East supply disruptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)