New York, United States , December 15, 2025 : U.S. stock index futures edged higher on Monday, signaling cautious optimism among investors after last week’s sharp technology-led selloff on Wall Street. The Dow Jones E-mini futures rose 231 points, or 0.48%, while S&P 500 E-minis gained 32.5 points, or 0.48%. Nasdaq 100 E-minis advanced 118.25 points, or 0.47%, recovering modestly after both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posted their steepest daily declines in over three weeks late last week.
The recent selloff was driven by concerns over persistent inflation, rising bond yields, and investor unease about debt-funded artificial intelligence investments, particularly in large-cap technology stocks. Despite Monday’s rebound, traders remain wary as volatility continues to grip global markets.
Investors are now focused on a data-heavy calendar, including delayed October non-farm payrolls figures for November, business activity surveys, weekly jobless claims, key inflation readings, and interest rate decisions from central banks in Europe, the United Kingdom, and Japan. These releases are expected to shape expectations around future Federal Reserve policy.
Adding to the uncertainty, U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly narrowed his shortlist for the next Federal Reserve Chair to former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, with a decision expected early next year. Market sentiment was further influenced by reports that JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has expressed support for Warsh, fueling speculation of a more dovish rate-cut stance, even as inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target.
Meanwhile, Fed Governor Stephen Miran and New York Fed President John Williams, both seen as policy doves, are scheduled to speak this week. However, analysts caution that the Federal Open Market Committee’s 2026 rotation could introduce more hawkish voices from Cleveland, Dallas, and Minneapolis, potentially leading to sharper internal policy debates.
ServiceNow slipped 2.5% following reports that the company is in advanced talks to acquire cybersecurity startup Armis. In contrast, iRobot shares plunged 83% after the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, rattling investors.
Broader market uncertainty lifted precious metals, with U.S.-listed miners Newmont and Barrick Mining gaining around 2%. Cannabis stocks, including Cronos Group and Tilray Brands, jumped 6% each on reports that the Trump administration may ease certain U.S. marijuana restrictions.
Globally, Europe’s STOXX 600 index has continued to outperform major U.S. benchmarks on a quarterly basis, highlighting a shift in investor preference amid ongoing volatility. Overall, markets remain cautiously optimistic but highly sensitive to incoming data and policy signals.
