U.S. Stock Futures Flat Ahead of July CPI Data

U.S. stock futures were little changed Tuesday evening after Wall Street suffered a second consecutive session of losses, as investors turned their attention to upcoming U.S. inflation data for clues about the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate outlook.

S&P 500 futures edged up 0.1% to 7,752.0, while Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.1% to 29,665.0 by 21:08 ET (01:08 GMT). Dow Jones futures were broadly flat at 53,868.0.

During Tuesday’s regular session, the S&P 500 declined 0.3%, the Nasdaq Composite fell 0.6%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.3%.

Markets are now focused on Wednesday’s U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for July, which could influence expectations for the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate decision. Economists expect headline CPI to increase 0.1% month over month after falling 0.4% in June, while annual inflation is forecast at 3.4%, down from 3.5%. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, is expected to rise 0.2%.

The inflation report has gained importance after weaker U.S. labor-market data reduced expectations for a September Fed rate hike. A stronger-than-expected CPI reading could, however, revive expectations for tighter monetary policy and put additional pressure on stocks.

Investor caution is also being fueled by rising geopolitical tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. U.S.-Iran negotiations have encountered new obstacles, while uncertainty over shipping routes has pushed Brent crude higher for a sixth consecutive session, bringing prices close to $90 a barrel.

Fresh maritime attacks have added to concerns about supply disruptions. Houthi rebels reported an attack on commercial shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while the U.S. Navy disabled a Panama-flagged vessel near the Gulf of Oman.

With U.S. stocks trading near record levels, investors are likely to remain highly sensitive to inflation, Federal Reserve policy signals and developments in global oil markets.