U.S. Stock Futures Steady Amid Tariff Tensions and Fed Watch

📌Key Takeaways:

• U.S. stock futures mostly quiet as markets digest tariff updates, regarding both trading futures and tariffs.
• Trump insists on new tariff deadlines, hints at 50% copper tariff
• Fed minutes from June meeting due, investors watch rate signals
• Kevin Hassett emerges as top contender for next Fed Chair
• Oil prices steady despite crude inventory jump

📉 ETF Inflow Summary Table

U.S. stock futures showed little movement early Wednesday as traders digested new tariff developments and prepared for the release of the Federal Reserve’s June meeting minutes. Investors remain cautious amid ongoing trade tensions and market uncertainty related to tariffs.

The main futures indexes were mostly flat: Dow futures remained broadly unchanged, S&P 500 futures dropped slightly by 0.1%, and Nasdaq 100 futures edged down by 0.1%. This calm followed a mixed session on Wall Street Tuesday, where markets reacted to a wave of tariff-related news and changes in the futures trading landscape.

Trump’s Tariff Deadline and Copper Tariff Threat ⚡

President Donald Trump reaffirmed that his new tariff deadline, extended to August 1, would not be delayed further. He also indicated plans to broaden tariffs, notably proposing a 50% tariff on imported copper, which is closely linked to U.S. stock futures and tariffs strategy.

In addition, other sectors such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors may soon face tariffs. The White House reported that tariff revenue has already generated $100 billion this year, with expectations it could rise to $300 billion by December. These funds help offset recent tax cuts and spending packages.

📊 Fed Minutes and Interest Rate Outlook

Traders are eagerly awaiting the Fed’s minutes from its June policy meeting, where officials kept interest rates steady between 4.25% and 4.5%. The central bank has taken a cautious “wait-and-see” approach amid tariff uncertainties and its impact on stock futures.

Market expectations remain for two rate cuts before the end of 2025, with the first likely in September and another in December. However, Fed Chair Jerome Powell faces mounting pressure from President Trump, who has criticized Powell and urged him to resign to allow for a new chair who would lower rates faster.

Read More: Complete Apple (AAPL) Stock Analysis

Kevin Hassett: Possible Next Fed Chair?

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett has emerged as a leading contender to replace Powell as Fed Chair, according to reports. Hassett, a close Trump ally, has met with the president multiple times this month and is favored over previous candidates.

Trump may accelerate his decision on Powell’s successor, possibly announcing it later this year.

🔮 Oil Prices Subdued Despite Inventory Surge

Crude oil prices remained mostly flat Wednesday despite a sharp rise in U.S. crude inventories reported by the American Petroleum Institute. Brent crude futures hovered at $70.19 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate was steady at $68.36, amid fluctuating stock futures and tariff discussions.

The unexpected 7.1 million barrel increase in inventories raised concerns about demand amid ongoing trade tensions. The market now awaits official data from the Energy Information Administration to confirm the trend.

What’s next? Watch for Fed minutes and tariff updates to guide market direction, especially focusing on U.S. stock futures and tariffs. Share your thoughts on these developments in the comments below! 💬