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U.S. Stock Futures Flat After Strong Q2 Opening

U.S. stock futures steadied after major indexes rose to begin the second quarter, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posting notable gains. Oil prices fell from recent peaks, with WTI and Brent declining. President Trump is due to address the Iran conflict, conditioning a ceasefire on the Strait of Hormuz's openness. Experts warn of prolonged inflationary pressures and growth risks from the war. Markets will close for Good Friday, with labor market data upcoming.

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U.S. Stock Futures Flat After Strong Q2 Opening

U.S. stock futures were little changed Wednesday night following a strong start to the second quarter, as investors assessed geopolitical developments and awaited President Trump's address on Iran.

Market Gains at Quarter Start

  • The S&P 500 rose 0.72%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 1.16%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 224.23 points, or 0.48%, in regular trading on Wednesday.
  • Futures for these indexes moved less than 0.1% in after-hours sessions.

Oil Prices Decline from Recent Highs

  • West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures settled down 1.24% to $100.12 per barrel.
  • Brent crude futures slipped 2.7% to $101.16 per barrel, easing from spikes amid Middle East tensions.
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Trump's Iran Address and Ceasefire Conditions

  • President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak at 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday to provide an update on Iran.
  • Trump stated on Truth Social that Iran's president requested a ceasefire, but the U.S. will only consider it once the Strait of Hormuz is "open, free, and clear."
  • He added that until then, the U.S. is "blasting Iran into oblivion."

Expert Warnings on Economic Impact

  • Sebastien Page, head of global multi-asset at T. Rowe Price, cautioned on CNBC about long-term effects on inflation and growth from the conflict.
  • Page noted a robust economy but highlighted risks of a growth shock, stating stabilization may be slow.

Upcoming Data and Market Closure

  • Markets will be closed on Good Friday, March 31, 2026.
  • On Thursday, traders will monitor initial jobless claims for the week ending March 28.
  • The March jobs report is set for release on Friday morning.
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