U.S. Stock Futures Edge Higher After Record Highs
U.S. stock futures moved slightly higher on Thursday evening after both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reached fresh record levels. Investors continued to balance strong corporate earnings with ongoing geopolitical uncertainty linked to the Iran conflict.
Futures tied to the S&P 500 rose 0.2% to 7,258.0 points, while Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.1% to 27,626.75 points. Dow Jones futures also advanced 0.2% to 49,917.0 points.
S&P 500 and Nasdaq Hit New Records
Wall Street closed Thursday on a strong note, with the S&P 500 climbing 1% to surpass the 7,200 mark, setting a new all-time high. The Nasdaq Composite followed with a 0.9% gain, also reaching record territory, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed with a 1.6% surge.
The rally was driven by solid corporate earnings, which boosted confidence in business performance and helped offset concerns around inflation and geopolitical tensions.
Apple Inc. Earnings Lift Market Sentiment
In after-hours trading, shares of Apple Inc. jumped 4% following its latest earnings release. The company reported record revenue and earnings per share, supported by strong iPhone demand and continued growth in its high-margin services segment.
iPhone sales increased by more than 20% for a second consecutive quarter, reinforcing investor optimism around the company’s outlook.
Reddit Inc. Surges on Strong Results
Shares of Reddit Inc. climbed nearly 13% after the close, driven by better-than-expected first-quarter results. The platform also reported daily active users above forecasts, signaling strong user growth.
Key Earnings Ahead
Investors are now turning their attention to upcoming earnings reports from major companies, including Chevron Corporation, Exxon Mobil Corporation, and AutoNation Inc., all scheduled to report before Friday’s market open.
Iran Tensions Keep Markets Cautious
Despite strong earnings momentum, market sentiment remains fragile due to escalating geopolitical risks. Reports indicate that Donald Trump is set to review new military strategies regarding Iran, raising concerns about a potential escalation.
Iran has warned that any further U.S. military action could result in “long and painful strikes” targeting American interests in the region.
Oil Market Volatility Adds Pressure
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, remains largely disrupted, tightening supply expectations. Oil prices have reacted sharply, with Brent crude surging above $126 per barrel—its highest level in four years—before pulling back to around $114 amid profit-taking and currency fluctuations.
