What’s Driving US Futures and Global Markets Amid Trade Tensions and AI Growth?

May 14, 2025 01:07 PM BST | By Team Kalkine Media
 What’s Driving US Futures and Global Markets Amid Trade Tensions and AI Growth?
Image source: shutterstock

Highlights

  • S&P 500 futures inch up while Dow remains steady, and Nasdaq 100 sees minor gains.

  • Nvidia’s surge, fueled by AI, continues to lead the tech rally.

  • Companies like Sony and American Eagle adjust forecasts due to tariff uncertainties.

US stock futures showed little movement on Wednesday, with key indices such as the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq 100 trying to maintain their ground. The S&P 500 managed to recover its losses for the year, while ongoing discussions regarding trade tariffs and their economic impact continued to shape investor sentiment. Futures on the S&P 500 edged higher, while Dow Jones futures stayed relatively unchanged. Nasdaq 100 futures also showed slight improvement, reflecting the strong performance of tech stocks, particularly Nvidia.

Nvidia’s Influence and AI Sector Growth

The tech sector remained in the spotlight, with Nvidia at the forefront of the market’s focus. The company’s strong performance in the AI space, particularly with new partnerships in regions like Saudi Arabia, bolstered market confidence in AI-related stocks. Nvidia’s continued growth, alongside its server partner Foxconn, reflected the increasing demand for AI technology, despite concerns about trade policies and tariffs. Foxconn, in particular, highlighted strong linked to AI, although it faced challenges due to tariff-related uncertainty.

Trade Concerns Impact Earnings and Market Outlook

The broader market felt the strain of ongoing trade tensions, with companies outside the tech sector adjusting their forecasts due to the global economic environment. Retailer American Eagle was one of the companies to reduce its earnings outlook, citing macroeconomic uncertainty driven by tariffs. The company’s stock saw a significant dip in premarket trading as investors reacted to the news.

Sony, based in Japan, also revealed the impact of US tariffs on its financial outlook. The company revised its expectations downward, citing the tariffs’ effect on its global operations. This adjustment sent waves across the international markets, as other companies faced similar challenges, grappling with the evolving trade landscape.

FTSE 100 and Broader Global Impacts

While the US market navigates these issues, the global market, including the FTSE 100, continues to reflect the broader economic environment shaped by trade policies and technological developments. The FTSE 100 index, tracking the performance of major UK companies, remains sensitive to both US trade policy and the broader economic context. Despite uncertainties in the US market, companies globally are adjusting to shifting market dynamics. Some are focusing on new growth areas, while others are taking steps to mitigate the impact of tariffs.

The continuing debate over tariffs and their potential long-term effects on global trade continue to create market volatility. Different sectors are experiencing varying degrees of impact, with some industries more vulnerable to tariff-related pressures than others. As the global market adapts, investors and companies are navigating through the complexities of international trade, adjusting their strategies accordingly.


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