Dow Jones futures advanced by 0.24% to trade near 49,200 during European hours on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 up 0.30% near 7,250 and Nasdaq 100 futures gaining 0.48% above 27,900, ahead of the US market open [1]. The positive momentum in US index futures was attributed to easing oil prices, as West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude pulled back after a 2.84% gain the previous day, though it remained above $100.00 per barrel amid ongoing US-Iran tensions [1].
Strong corporate earnings further supported market sentiment. Palantir Technologies exceeded Wall Street expectations for first-quarter revenue and profit, reporting 85% annual revenue growth to $1.63 billion, driven by robust demand from commercial clients and the US government [1]. Vertex Pharmaceuticals also posted solid Q1 2026 results, with $2.99 billion in revenue and $4.47 EPS, both surpassing estimates. The company highlighted progress in its pipeline, particularly Povetacicept, and reaffirmed its full-year revenue guidance of $12.95–$13.1 billion [1].
Despite the positive futures movement, Wall Street closed lower on Monday, with the Dow Jones falling 1.13%, the S&P 500 down 0.41%, and the Nasdaq 100 slipping 0.19%, as risk aversion increased due to concerns over potential escalation in the Middle East conflict [1]. CNBC reported that the UAE was targeted by Iranian drones and missiles, while the US destroyed Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump issued a warning that Iran would be “blown off the face of the earth” if it targeted US ships escorting commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz [1].
Looking ahead, several major US companies, including Shopify, Pfizer, and Advanced Micro Devices, are scheduled to report earnings on Tuesday. Investors are also monitoring key economic data releases, such as the US Trade Balance and the latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) [1].
CONCLUSION
US index futures rebounded on Tuesday, supported by easing oil prices and strong corporate earnings from companies like Palantir Technologies and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. However, lingering geopolitical tensions and recent declines in major indices suggest that market sentiment remains cautious. Investors are closely watching upcoming earnings reports and economic data for further direction.