Stock market futures are under pressure as investors react to corporate earnings reports and shifting trade policies. Concerns over slowing demand in key sectors and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty are driving volatility across global markets.
Stock Futures Drop Amid Earnings and Tariff Uncertainty
U.S. stock futures are trading lower on Thursday, March 6, 2025, as technology stocks, particularly in the semiconductor sector, face renewed selling pressure.
- Dow Jones Futures: Down 1.91%
- S&P 500 Futures: Down 1.92%
- Nasdaq 100 Futures: Down 1.60%
The decline follows a mixed earnings season and continued uncertainty over tariffs on U.S. auto imports.
Key Factors Impacting Futures
Chipmakers Lead Market Declines After Marvell’s Earnings Report
Semiconductor stocks are taking a hit after Marvell Technology reported earnings that met expectations but failed to impress investors. The company's forecast signaled potential slowing demand for AI chips, sparking a broad selloff in the sector.
- Marvell Technology (MRVL): Down 15.5% in premarket trading
- Broadcom (AVGO): Down 3.2%
- Nvidia (NVDA): Down 2.8%
- AMD (AMD): Down 2.5%
Investors are increasingly concerned that the AI-driven boom in chip demand may be moderating, which could put further pressure on high-growth technology stocks.
Trade Policies Add to Market Uncertainty
Markets are also reacting to President Trump’s announcement that he will delay the imposition of tariffs on U.S. auto imports from Canada and Mexico for one month.
- Automakers, including General Motors and Ford, initially rallied on the news, but broader market uncertainty kept gains in check.
- The delay in tariffs does not resolve long-term trade tensions, leaving investors wary of potential retaliatory actions.
Other Market Movements
Oil Prices Rebound Slightly After Multi-Day Decline
Oil prices are showing signs of stabilization after a sharp decline earlier in the week.
- Brent Crude: Up 0.72%, trading at $69.80 per barrel
- WTI Crude: Up 0.72%, trading at $66.79 per barrel
Despite the modest gains, oil markets remain under pressure due to concerns over rising supply levels and global trade uncertainties.
Currency Markets Experience Volatility
Currency futures and options trading has surged as traders respond to unpredictable tariff policies and geopolitical developments.
- The U.S. dollar is trading lower as investors shift to safer assets amid global uncertainty.
- The Japanese yen and Swiss franc have strengthened, reflecting a move toward safe-haven currencies.
What Investors Should Watch
With ongoing trade negotiations and the final stretch of earnings season, volatility is expected to persist. Investors should pay close attention to:
- Federal Reserve Commentary – Any signals on potential interest rate changes could further impact market sentiment.
- Upcoming Economic Data – Job reports and inflation readings will provide insight into the strength of the U.S. economy.
- Geopolitical Developments – Any new trade announcements or policy shifts could have immediate effects on market direction.