U.S. Stock Futures Edge Higher as Ceasefire Extension and Intel Earnings Lift Sentiment

U.S. stock index futures moved slightly higher বৃহস্পতিবার evening following a weaker session on Wall Street, as investors responded to geopolitical developments and strong corporate earnings. S&P 500 Futures climbed 0.2% to 7,160 points, while Nasdaq 100 Futures rose 0.7% to 27,133.75. Dow Jones Futures remained largely unchanged at 49,486, reflecting cautious optimism in the market.

The modest rebound came after President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to extend their ceasefire for an additional three weeks. The extension eased immediate geopolitical concerns, although risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue to weigh on investor sentiment. Trump also noted that the United States would support Lebanon in strengthening its defenses against Hezbollah, signaling ongoing U.S. involvement in the region.

Earlier বৃহস্পতিবার, major U.S. stock indexes closed lower, pulling back from recent highs as surging oil prices pressured equities. The Nasdaq Composite led losses, dropping करीब 1%, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average each declined 0.4%. Crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel amid continued tensions and reports of ship seizures near the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting persistent supply risks and market volatility.

Despite rising energy costs, analysts suggest that equity markets remain relatively stable for now. According to ING, investors are giving ongoing negotiations time, even as higher oil prices and interest rates pose potential risks to future market performance.

Meanwhile, corporate earnings continue to provide support. Intel Corporation shares surged more than 20% in after-hours trading after reporting stronger-than-expected first-quarter results. Growth was driven by strong demand for data center processors and artificial intelligence workloads, reinforcing Intel’s position in the AI-driven semiconductor market. The company also issued an optimistic revenue forecast for the second quarter, exceeding analyst expectations.

Investors are now focusing on upcoming earnings reports from major companies including Procter & Gamble, Norfolk Southern, Charter Communications, and SLB, which could further influence market direction and investor confidence.