OptionsPlayers Morning Wire — Thursday Market Outlook
Featuring: The Power of Proven Systems & Structured Wealth Building
U.S. stock futures searched for direction early Thursday as traders awaited remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and several other Fed officials. Markets are also digesting minutes from the latest FOMC meeting while navigating the ongoing government shutdown and continued enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence that has fueled record-breaking rallies across major indices in 2025.
By 06:11 ET (10:11 GMT), Dow and S&P 500 futures were mostly unchanged, while Nasdaq 100 futures edged lower by 16 points, or 0.1%. On Wednesday, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both notched fresh all-time highs, led by AI-driven mega-cap strength that continues to dominate equity flows. Despite lingering concerns over circular AI deal structures, investor euphoria remains intact as traders prepare for next week’s earnings season kickoff.
🏦 Powell Speaks, Markets Listen
Fed Chair Powell’s pre-recorded statement later this morning could move markets if his tone shifts hawkish, potentially tempering rate-cut expectations. Additional comments from Vice Chair Bowman and Governor Barr will follow, though analysts caution that the ongoing shutdown has limited new economic data, making it difficult for policymakers to meaningfully change the rate narrative.
FOMC minutes from September showed the committee divided over how fast to cut rates amid softening labor data and sticky inflation. Most participants signaled a preference for continued easing toward a “neutral” rate but stressed caution given upside inflation risks.
💰 Earnings Snapshot: Pepsi & Delta Shine
PepsiCo (PEP) reported stronger-than-expected Q3 earnings, driven by surging demand for energy and healthier beverages. Shares rose 1% premarket as activist investor Elliott Management continues to push for restructuring to improve margins.
Delta Air Lines (DAL) also soared premarket after posting record operating revenue, signaling minimal disruption from the government shutdown and robust premium travel demand.
🪙 Gold & Oil Take a Breather
Gold prices cooled slightly after briefly touching $4,060/oz, pausing near record highs as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reduced safe-haven demand. Meanwhile, oil slipped after President Trump announced progress in Gaza peace talks and rising U.S. crude inventories weighed on sentiment.
📈 Market Recap
The $QQQ closed at another record high of 611.44 (+1.15%), fueled by bullish momentum across tech and metals. NVDA rallied as the U.S. approved billions in GPU exports to the UAE, while China announced tighter controls on rare earth exports—potentially boosting metals and mining names further.
Bitcoin held near $122K, spot gold hovered around $4,060/oz, and silver traded at $48.40/oz. Key data today include jobless claims, Powell’s comments, and the WASDE report.
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