Markets eye earnings wave, key economic data, and Fed signals amid easing trade tensions
đźš— Auto Tariff Relief Lifts Sentiment
U.S. stock futures inched higher Tuesday as investors digested new White House plans to ease auto tariffs, which are aimed at reducing the burden on domestic carmakers. According to reports, the Trump administration will take steps to prevent duplicate levies on automakers already facing tariffs on imported steel.
- S&P 500 futures (ES=F): +0.3%
- Nasdaq 100 futures (NQ=F): +0.4%
- Dow futures (YM=F): +0.2%
President Trump’s recent softer tone on trade talks with China and reduced pressure on the Federal Reserve helped markets stabilize Monday after a volatile start to the month.
đź’° Earnings Season Heats Up
Investors are watching earnings closely to determine which companies are most exposed—or most insulated—from shifting trade policies.
Reporting today before the bell:
- General Motors (GM)
- Spotify (SPOT)
After the close:
- Starbucks (SBUX)
The spotlight shifts midweek to tech giants, with Meta (META), Microsoft (MSFT), Amazon (AMZN), and Apple (AAPL) reporting Wednesday and Thursday. Their results could determine the next major move for the broader market.
đź“Š Data Deluge Ahead
Tuesday’s economic calendar features updates on:
- Job openings
- U.S. trade deficit
- Consumer confidence
Later this week, attention turns to the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation report, GDP data, and monthly labor market stats, all of which will influence expectations around interest rate policy.
🔚 Conclusion: Calm Before the Storm?
While futures are pointing slightly higher and tariff relief is a welcome sign, investors remain cautious. The mix of corporate earnings, Trump’s evolving trade tactics, and Fed policy uncertainties make this a potentially pivotal week for markets.
Bottom line:
A steady start doesn’t guarantee a smooth ride. With critical data and mega-cap earnings on deck, Wall Street may still face volatility ahead. Keep an eye on how markets react—not just to the numbers—but to the narratives that shape them.
