Good morning, OP! It’s Friday, and what a week it’s been! Here’s what’s moving the markets today, plus what’s coming up in the OP community.
U.S. stock futures are hovering near flatline after yesterday’s decline, with traders digesting the first month of Trump’s new administration. As of 03:31 ET (08:31 GMT), Dow futures were unchanged, S&P 500 futures dipped 6 points (-0.1%), and Nasdaq 100 futures slipped 24 points (-0.1%).
Markets are still reacting to Walmart’s (NYSE:WMT) weaker-than-expected sales forecast, which raised concerns about consumer spending. However, Walmart executives maintained that shopping activity remains “resilient.”
Meanwhile, today’s February U.S. business activity data could give further insight into the economy’s strength. The latest S&P Global Composite PMI reading came in at 52.7, revised slightly upward but still at a nine-month low. The manufacturing sector continues to grow, but firms are bracing for potential supply chain disruptions due to Trump’s planned tariffs.
Earnings & Stock Movers
– Block (SQ) shares dropped after hours following weaker-than-expected Q4 earnings. The payments company missed profit estimates despite holiday spending and a post-election Bitcoin rally.
– Alibaba (BABA) soared over 14% in Hong Kong trading after crushing earnings expectations and announcing new investments in AI and core e-commerce. This sparked a rally in Chinese tech stocks.
– Gold & Oil: Gold pulled back from record highs but remains strong for the week as Trump’s trade policies drive safe-haven demand. Oil is holding steady, eyeing supply disruptions in Russia and U.S. inventory drawdowns.
What’s Happening in OP Today
– Secret Sauce Live Trading: Greg is hosting today’s session, so be ready for expert insights and strategies.
– Live Market Analysis Next Week: Greg will be breaking down market moves—mark your calendar.
– OP Lotto Tonight: $165 Million! Tickets will be posted in chat after the bell—good luck!
– Trade Plans for Today: Watching for a potential WMT short after an early pop. Plus, stay tuned for live upgrades, downgrades, and key news updates in chat throughout the day.
Let’s finish the week strong! See you in chat!
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