The Federal Reserve's interest rate cut was a long time coming, the first rate reduction since 2020. But what was a 50-basis-point cut too aggressive a move too soon as Fed Chair Jerome Powell assures that the central bank is not behind the curve?
Takeaways
Stock futures (ES=F, NQ=F, YM=F) ride higher Thursday morning after the Federal Reserve opted to cut ... Show More
Feb 2026
Walmart cautious, futures lower, Iran tensions rise
Futures point lower as investors weigh cautious guidance from Walmart and rising geopolitical risk tied to Iran. Dow futures fall about 166 points, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 also in the red. Markets are watching consumer data and oil prices for the next signal. Walmart mode ... Show More
25m 17s
Feb 2026
US lags global surge, valuation gap widens, Japan energy deal advances
Stocks are rebounding after another AI-driven sell-off, with housing starts and durable goods topping estimates despite December declines. Still, US equities are off to their worst relative start since 1995, as investors await the GDP report and reassess positioning. The S&P 500’ ... Show More
25m 17s
Feb 2026
Tech sell-off deepens, AI disruption debate, IPO window tested
Futures are lower after the holiday break, with Nasdaq 100 futures off about 0.7% as investors digest last week’s worst stretch since November. The AI transition remains the central driver, with traders watching earnings commentary and capital expenditures discipline for clarity. ... Show More
24m 53s
Sep 2024
The Fed takes bold action: cutting rates from a position of strength
<p>In a surprise move, the Federal Reserve has cut its benchmark interest rate by 0.5%, kicking off its first easing cycle since the pandemic began. But unlike previous rate cuts, this decision is not a response to economic weakness – instead, it's a proactive bid to prevent futu ... Show More
16m 4s