U.S. Futures Tick Up as Fed Decision Looms Amid Middle East Tensions

U.S. stock index futures edged higher Monday, seeking to recoup late‑week losses ahead of this week's Federal Reserve rate decision and against a backdrop of renewed Israel‑Iran hostilities.

Futures Rebound Ahead of Fed Meeting

At 05:25 ET (09:25 GMT):

• Dow Jones Futures: +145 points (+0.4%)

• S&P 500 Futures: +27 points (+0.5%)

• Nasdaq 100 Futures: +113 points (+0.5%)

Investors are positioning ahead of Wednesday's FOMC rate announcement, which could set the tone for equities in the second half of 2025. To track the exact timing and consensus expectations for the Fed decision, consult the Economic Calendar API. economics-calendar

Most Active Futures Movers

For a real‑time view of which contracts and sectors are driving volume and price action in premarket trading, refer to the Market - Most Active API. market-most-active

Geopolitical Risk: Israel‑Iran Strikes

Over the weekend, Israel and Iran exchanged missile strikes, heightening uncertainty in the Middle East. Key developments include:

• Iran's Stance: Tehran refuses U.S.‑mediated ceasefire talks while Israeli strikes continue, according to Reuters.

• Israel's Warnings: Civilians near Iran's nuclear sites were urged to evacuate amid targeted attacks.

• Shipping Lanes Safe—for Now: Investors remain cautiously optimistic that the Strait of Hormuz, critical for global oil flows, won't be closed.

These skirmishes dented Friday's trading—S&P 500 (-1.1%), Nasdaq Composite (-1.3%), Dow (-1.8%)—but have yet to trigger a broader risk‑off wave, as markets monitor whether the conflict will escalate further.

G7 Summit Focus: De‑Escalation and Tariffs

The Israel‑Iran crisis tops the agenda at this week's G7 summit in Canada, where leaders plan to:

• Issue a Joint Appeal: Urge both sides to step back from military escalation.

• Balance Diplomacy with Defense: German Chancellor Merz advocates preventing Iran's nuclear ambitions while upholding Israel's security.

• Handle Tariff Tensions: Canadian PM Carney hinted Ottawa might retaliate against U.S. steel and aluminum levies if Washington doesn't adjust its “reciprocal” tariffs—underscoring that trade policy remains entwined with geopolitical stability.

Bottom Line: With the Fed decision and G7 diplomatic efforts converging this week, markets are likely to see swings driven by both monetary policy and geopolitical headlines. By watching the Economic Calendar and tracking the most active futures, investors can stay ahead of potential volatility triggers.