US stock futures edged higher Monday as investors brace for tariff decisions, a key jobs report, and major retail earnings this week.
🔹 Market Moves:
- S&P 500 futures (+0.2%)
- Nasdaq 100 futures (+0.3%)
- Dow Jones futures (flat)
🔹 Tariff Uncertainty Looms
Tariffs on Canada and Mexico are set to take effect Tuesday, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calling the situation “fluid.” New tariffs on China are also expected.
🔹 Economic Data in Focus
The February jobs report (due Friday) is expected to show modest job growth and a steady 4% unemployment rate, a key indicator amid fears of a slowing economy. Meanwhile, Target (TGT) and Costco (COST) will report earnings, offering insights into consumer spending after January saw the sharpest decline in four years.
🔹 Crypto Surges on Trump’s Announcement
Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Solana, and Cardano rallied after Trump announced they would be included in a US strategic cryptocurrency reserve. Bitcoin spiked to $94,000 before pulling back to $91,700.
🔹 Oil Prices Steady Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Brent crude held near $73 per barrel as traders weighed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and potential US-brokered ceasefire. Trump’s negotiations with Vladimir Putin have complicated Western sanctions, adding further uncertainty.
With key tariff deadlines and economic data ahead, markets remain volatile as investors await clarity on trade policies and global stability.