U.S. stock futures declined as investors anticipated economic data and Federal Reserve Chair Powell's remarks to gauge future monetary policy. The S&P 500 and Dow posted modest gains, overshadowed by Nasdaq's losses. Traders are keenly watching Fed's upcoming rate decision, along with global economic influences like Japan's potential rate hike.

Anticipation Looms as Fed's Rate Decision and Economic Data Await Investors

U.S. Stock Index Futures Experience Downturn Amid Economic Uncertainty

Investors are on high alert as they await critical economic data and insight from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, which has kept many market participants on the sidelines.

Market Sentiment

The benchmark S&P 500 and blue-chip Dow indices secured some gains last month, driven by expectations of an interest rate cut in December.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq, however, confronted its largest losses since March, as fears surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) investments persisted.

Weekly Market Focus

The focus this week leans heavily on a delayed report on the Personal Consumption Expenditures Index, set for release Friday.

Global Economic Developments

Japan may raise its interest rates in December to combat inflation and a weakening yen, potentially undoing extensive carry trades.
Cyber Monday has also generated buzz, with online shoppers spending a record $11.8 billion on Black Friday.

Stock Market Updates

U.S.-listed crypto stocks like Strategy and Coinbase saw significant losses as bitcoin prices dropped further.

Key Takeaways:

The anticipation of critical economic data and insight from Jerome Powell has kept investors on the sidelines, leading to a downturn in U.S. stock index futures.

The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index report set for release Friday will be a key focus this week.