Trump's Trade Tango: U.S. Stock Futures Rise Amid Britain Deal Hopes
U.S. stock index futures advanced following news of a potential U.S.-UK trade agreement, bringing optimism to markets concerned about tariffs and economic growth. Investors awaited confirmation of the deal as semiconductor stocks surged amid prospects of eased export restrictions. The U.S. Federal Reserve maintained interest rates, signaling inflation and employment concerns.
On Thursday, optimism swept U.S. stock index futures as news emerged about a potential trade deal between the Trump administration and Britain, raising hopes among investors wary of ongoing tariff concerns. Semiconductor stocks surged on the possibility of fewer export restrictions on AI semiconductors.
President Trump announced an imminent trade agreement with Britain to reduce tariffs on select goods, marking a potential first move since the U.S. paused country-specific tariffs on global economies last month. This follows signals from the administration indicating ongoing negotiations, although concrete results remain unseen.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Federal Reserve, confronting inflation and employment uncertainties, held interest rates steady. Investors are on alert as markets near earnings season's end, scrutinizing corporate strategies for navigating tariff-driven challenges. Semiconductor stocks led gains, while Krispy Kreme's shares plummeted after withdrawing its full-year forecast.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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