U.S. Stock Futures Rise Despite Inflation Report, Earnings Season in Focus

Summary:

* U.S. stock futures gained, indicating a positive open despite a hotter-than-expected inflation report.
* Nasdaq futures led the advance, rising 0.4%, while Dow Jones and S&P 500 futures followed suit with modest gains.

Inflation and Fed Outlook:

* January's inflation report revealed a 3% annualized increase in consumer prices, exceeding expectations.
* The data reinforces expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain interest rates on hold until inflation approaches its 2% target.

Reddit and Robinhood Earnings:

* Reddit shares plunged after-hours on disappointing user growth.
* Robinhood, on the other hand, surged after beating profit expectations in Q4.

Upcoming Economic Data and Earnings:

* Producer price index (PPI) to be released Thursday, January 12, at 8:30 AM ET.
* Earnings from AirBnB, Roku, and Coinbase also expected on Thursday.

Trump's Trade War:

* President Trump's ongoing trade dispute with China remains unresolved.
* Tit-for-tat tariffs expected by the end of the week.

Asian Market Performance:

* Asian shares rose on optimism fueled by US-Russian peace talks and AI advancements.
* Nikkei 225 and Kospi gained, while Shanghai Composite declined slightly.

Energy Markets:

* Oil prices fell, with Brent crude dropping 2.7% amid peace talk optimism.
* Exxon Mobil's 3% stock decline contributed to market pressures.

Investor Focus:

* Asian investors focused on potential Ukraine conflict resolution and the strength of China's tech sector.