The S&P 500 futures saw a decrease on Tuesday evening, with the market anticipating the Federal Reserve’s rate policy decision. The overall drop in buy orders displays the wariness of investors amid predictions of a potential interest rate hike.
The tech sector and commodity futures also experienced a downturn. Possible regulatory policies likely contributed to a 0.32% dip in tech futures, while oversupply fears and a strengthening dollar led to decreasing oil and gold futures.
The bond market responded with a subtle decline as well. Market watchers now eagerly await the Federal Reserve’s decision that could impact the market’s short-term direction.
After-market trading saw an approximate 1% increase. However, some semiconductor stocks suffered a dip due to lower than expected current quarter results and slight revenue misses. The market remained steady despite these developments, though— and even recorded growth of nearly 1% following after-hours trade.
Market metrics fell over 1% during Tuesday’s trading, with certain tech indices dropping 2%.
Anticipation mounts for Fed’s rate policy
Rising bond yields due to higher-than-expected Q1 employment cost results ignited worries about the Fed’s high interest rates. Despite this, the market showed resilience in sectors like alternative energy, even as banking shares took a hit.
Last month’s numbers saw substantial drops in the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and The Dow’s significant averages. Market uncertainties persisted, anticipating further dips and perhaps record-breaking declines. The attention now shifts towards June’s projections and potential volatility in the second quarter.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Fed will reveal its interest rate decision. All eyes will be on Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s insights about future rate decisions, with focus on major indicators like inflation, unemployment rates, and GDP growth.
Sam Stovall, CFRA’s chief investment strategist, expressed concerns about the Fed’s possibly delayed reaction in reducing interest rates due to constant inflation. He believes the Fed may adopt a wait-and-see approach in hopes for a decline in inflation statistics.
Looking ahead, the economic schedule for Wednesday includes various labor and employment data, significant earnings reports, and the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book on economic conditions. These materials may reveal valuable trends for future economic forecasting.
