Stock Futures Await Fed Comments Amid Mixed Economic Signals

U.S. stock index futures showed minimal movement on Monday as investors awaited key policymakers' comments and economic data to gauge interest rates and economic health post Federal Reserve's recent easing cycle. Last week, the Fed's monetary policy shift boosted Wall Street's indexes for monthly gains. Key Fed officials are expected to provide insights this week.

U.S. stock index futures remained largely unchanged on Monday, as investors anticipated upcoming comments from key policymakers and critical economic data. This follows the Federal Reserve's recent decision to begin its easing cycle.

The Fed's historic move last week led to notable gains in Wall Street's main indexes, defying the usual trend of a weak September. The S&P 500 is close to an all-time high, while the Dow reached a record on Friday. Despite these gains, there is cautious sentiment due to the current high valuations of these benchmarks.

As of 5:36 a.m. ET, Dow E-minis edged up by 7 points (0.02%), S&P 500 E-minis by 5.25 points (0.09%), and Nasdaq 100 E-minis by 32.5 points (0.16%). Data from Friday indicated equity fund managers increased their net long positions in S&P 500 futures as of September 17. This week, investors will focus on remarks from Fed officials, including Jerome Powell, to get insights on economic health and future monetary policy. The market expects a significant easing move by the Fed based on upcoming inflation data.

FedWatch Tool data suggests a 53% probability of a 50 bps ease, rising from 29.3% last week, with a 47% chance for a 25 bps reduction. Fed officials' speeches, including those from Raphael Bostic, Austan Goolsbee, and Neel Kashkari, will be closely monitored. A preliminary September manufacturing and services activity survey is due at 9:45 a.m. ET, with greater focus on Friday's personal consumption expenditure figure.

Among notable market moves, Intel's stock rose 4% in premarket trade following Apollo's investment interest report of up to $5 billion. Additionally, sources indicated Qualcomm's potential acquisition interest in the company.