Last Updated on 12/08/2026
U.S. stock futures were largely unchanged on Tuesday night following a second consecutive day of losses on Wall Street, as investors remained cautious ahead of key inflation data that could provide insight into the Federal Reserve’s future interest-rate decisions.
S&P 500 futures edged up 0.1% to 7,752.0, while Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.1% to 29,665.0. Dow Jones futures were little changed at 53,868.0.
Investors Focus on CPI Report for Fed Policy Signals
During Tuesday’s regular trading session, the S&P 500 slipped 0.3%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.6%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.3%.
Market participants are now looking toward Wednesday’s U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) release, which is expected to play a key role in shaping expectations for upcoming Federal Reserve policy decisions.
Analysts forecast that headline inflation increased 0.1% in July after a 0.4% decline in June. On an annual basis, CPI is projected to ease slightly to 3.4% from 3.5% previously.
Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, is expected to rise 0.2% month-over-month.
The inflation report carries added significance after recent weakness in the U.S. labor market dampened expectations of a Fed rate hike in September. However, stronger-than-anticipated inflation data could prompt investors to reassess the likelihood of tighter monetary policy.
With major U.S. equity indexes still trading near record levels, markets remain highly sensitive to any signs that inflationary pressures are proving more persistent than policymakers had hoped.
Oil Advances Further as Hormuz Uncertainty Continues to Weigh on Markets
Geopolitical tensions remained a key concern for investors as negotiations between the United States and Iran over reopening the Strait of Hormuz encountered additional setbacks. Tehran reportedly sought major concessions, including access to frozen Iranian funds and a reduction of U.S. involvement in regional conflicts, while President Donald Trump insisted that Iran should provide compensation for damages linked to the crisis.
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding one of the world’s most important energy transit routes continued to support crude prices. Brent oil climbed for a sixth consecutive session on Wednesday, recovering toward the $90-per-barrel mark as traders assessed the risks to global supply flows.
Concerns were further amplified by new security incidents in regional shipping lanes. Houthi forces claimed responsibility for an attack on commercial vessels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait that resulted in multiple fatalities, including cargo ship crew members and Yemeni rescue personnel. Separately, the U.S. Navy reportedly disabled a Panama-flagged ship near the Gulf of Oman, adding to fears that maritime disruptions could persist and delay any near-term easing of tensions.
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