Overview of the Futures Market

U.S. stock futures experienced a dip on Wednesday as investors prepared for a week filled with crucial mega-cap tech earnings and essential economic reports:

• Dow futures: Flat

• S&P 500 futures: Down approximately 0.2%

• Nasdaq 100 futures: Down about 0.3%

Despite gains on Tuesday driven by positive developments in White House tariff discussions, market sentiment remains cautious.

Focus on Mega-Cap Tech Earnings

This week, leading companies like Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) will announce their first-quarter earnings. Investors are particularly interested in:

• Revenue growth relative to analyst expectations

• Advertising spending trends at Meta

• Cloud services profitability at Microsoft

For comprehensive info on upcoming corporate reports, the Earnings Calendar API provides current dates and expected figures to help traders spot potential market movers.

Important Economic Data to Monitor

In addition to earnings announcements, several macroeconomic reports are set to impact market direction:

• Q1 GDP first estimate: Assesses overall growth

• Monthly job report: Shows labor market status

• PCE inflation statistics: The Federal Reserve’s preferred price gauge

Recent surveys have indicated fewer job openings in March and a decline in consumer confidence for April, hinting at mixed signals regarding the U.S. economy’s momentum.

Policy Updates: Tariff Easing and Trade Agreements

On the policy side, President Trump enacted measures offering credits and temporary duty relief on auto parts and materials to mitigate the impact of his 25% tariffs. Key elements of this order include:

• Two-year reshoring window for automakers

• Retroactive credits for qualifying parts imports

• Support for car manufacturers unable to quickly modify supply chains

Additionally, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated that a trade agreement with an undisclosed nation is anticipated “soon,” suggesting that the White House’s three-month tariff hiatus could lead to multiple bilateral contracts.