U.S. Stock Futures Dip as Investors Monitor Trade Developments, Earnings, and Key Data

U.S. stock futures slipped Tuesday evening as investors digested signs of easing trade tensions, soft economic data, and awaited major corporate earnings. S&P 500 futures fell 0.2% to 5,571.75, while Nasdaq 100 futures dropped 0.4% to 19,561.75. Dow Jones futures remained flat at 40,653.00.

Markets ended higher earlier in the day, buoyed by optimism around U.S. trade policy. President Trump signed two executive orders providing tax credits and tariff relief for auto parts, just before new 25% duties were set to take effect. The move followed a Michigan visit and comes amid broader negotiations. Adding to the positive sentiment, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC the U.S. is nearing a significant trade deal.

The Dow gained 0.8%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both rose 0.6%. Still, market sentiment remained cautious, with volatility persisting as traders awaited more concrete progress on trade talks.

Economic data released Tuesday showed consumer confidence falling to its lowest since May 2020, signaling concerns over the economy. Job openings (JOLTS) also fell to 7.192 million in March, below the prior 7.48 million. Investors are now focused on upcoming key reports, including the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge—the PCE price index—and Friday’s U.S. jobs report. First-quarter GDP data is also due this week.

On the earnings front, Coca-Cola rose 0.8% despite a revenue decline. Spotify tumbled 3% after issuing weak user guidance, and UPS dipped 0.5% even after beating estimates. Market attention is now on upcoming results from tech giants including Microsoft, Meta (reporting Wednesday), and Apple and Amazon (Thursday).

This week, roughly one-third of S&P 500 companies are scheduled to report earnings, keeping investors on edge.