Market Indexes Show Positive Momentum in Premarket Trading
Major U.S. stock indexes are pointing to a modestly higher open on Friday, July 18, 2025, as markets today look to build on Thursday’s record-setting performance. S&P 500 futures are up 0.12% to 6,348.25, while Dow Jones Industrial Average futures have gained 0.13% to 44,778.00, and Nasdaq Composite futures are 0.12% higher at 23,278.25.
The positive momentum follows Thursday’s strong session where the S&P 500 climbed 0.5% to 6,297.36, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.5% to 44,484.49, and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.7% to 20,884.27 – all setting fresh record highs.
For the week so far, the S&P 500 is up 0.6%, the Dow has gained 0.3%, and the Nasdaq has surged 1.5%, highlighting the continued strength in technology stocks.
Earnings Season Takes Center Stage with Financial Giants Reporting
Friday marks a busy day for earnings with several financial heavyweights scheduled to report before the market opens. American Express (AXP) is expected to report second-quarter earnings of $3.88 per share, representing a 10.6% increase compared to the same quarter last year.
Charles Schwab (SCHW) is projected to post earnings of $1.10 per share, while Truist Financial (TFC) is expected to report $0.93 per share.
Other notable companies reporting today include 3M Company (MMM), with analysts expecting earnings of $2.01 per share, and Schlumberger (SLB), with projected earnings of $0.73 per share.
Premarket Movers Showing Significant Activity
Several stocks are making notable moves in premarket trading. Telomir Pharmaceuticals (TELO) is the biggest gainer, surging 180.99% to $3.40 on heavy volume of over 17 million shares.
On the downside, LQR House (YHC) is the biggest decliner, plummeting 62.25% to $2.48, while Northern Dynasty Minerals (NAK) has dropped 33.74% to $1.08.
Economic Data and Federal Reserve Developments
Recent economic data has been supporting market sentiment. Thursday saw better-than-expected reports on retail sales and unemployment claims, contributing to the market’s positive performance.
The Federal Reserve remains in focus as divergent views on monetary policy emerge from officials. San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly has suggested it’s reasonable to expect two rate cuts this year, warning against waiting too long. However, Fed Governor Adriana Kugler has advocated for rates to be held steady “for some time,” citing concerns about accelerating inflation driven by tariffs.
Meanwhile, tensions between the Federal Reserve and the Trump administration continue to simmer. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has defended a $2.5 billion Fed renovation in a point-by-point response to the administration, while reports suggest Trump is exploring options to potentially remove Powell from his position.
Corporate News and Market Trends
In corporate developments, United Airlines has indicated that the second half of 2025 looks more predictable and may allow it to beat earnings targets. Chevron is reportedly nearing a production plateau in the largest U.S. oil field, which could pave the way for billions in additional cash flow over the next few years.
The technology sector continues to lead market gains, with Taiwan Semiconductor’s upbeat outlook boosting sentiment around AI-related spending. This has helped lift tech stocks broadly, contributing to the Nasdaq’s outperformance this week.
Commodities are also making headlines, with copper prices surging to record highs amid concerns about potential tariffs on imports of the metal. This trend could continue as trade tensions persist.
Looking Ahead: Market Outlook and Key Events
As we move deeper into earnings season, investor attention will remain focused on corporate results and guidance. Next week will bring reports from several tech giants that could further influence market news today and beyond.
Trade policy also remains a key factor for markets today, as President Trump has reportedly sent letters to over 20 trade partners, setting new baseline tariffs of 20%-40%. These developments could have significant implications for inflation and corporate profits in the coming quarters.
With major indexes at or near record highs, market participants will be watching closely for signs of continued economic strength to justify current valuations. The combination of solid retail sales data, strong corporate earnings, and potential monetary easing later this year continues to provide support for the stock market today.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.