Stock Market Update: Futures Steady Amid Walmart Earnings Jitters
U.S. stock index futures remained largely unchanged after major indices declined on Thursday, following a weak earnings outlook from Walmart (WMT). Futures tracking the S&P 500 (ES=F), Nasdaq (NQ=F), and Dow Jones Industrial Average (YM=F) hovered near flat levels.
President Trump's tariffs continue to cast uncertainty over the impact on retailers and consumers. Walmart's cautionary 2025 forecast, citing tariff concerns, sparked a market downturn. The company's CFO indicated that potential tariff-related cost increases could be passed on to consumers.
Economic data releases will be limited on Friday. Existing home sales figures for January will offer insight into the housing market, alongside consumer sentiment readings from the University of Michigan.
In individual company news, Celsius Holdings (CELH) stock surged over 35% in after-hours trading following the announcement of its $1.8 billion acquisition of Alani Nutrition. Dropbox (DBX) shares, however, declined by 6% due to reported slowing customer growth.
Meta (META) remains in the spotlight amid a record year of gains. The company reportedly plans to reduce equity awards for most employees by approximately 10% for 2025.