Stock Market Today: February 12, 2025 – Indexes Stall as Key Inflation Report Looms
The stock market on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, is showing signs of caution as investors await a crucial inflation report that could influence the Federal Reserve’s future interest rate decisions. Major indexes are experiencing a slight pullback, with upcoming earnings releases and geopolitical factors adding to the market’s complexity.
Current Market Performance
As of the latest data available, the major U.S. stock market indexes are showing mixed performance:
– S&P 500 Futures: 6,087.25, down 0.08%
– Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures: 44,637.00, down 0.16%
– Nasdaq Futures: 21,803.50, up 0.08%
This hesitation in the markets comes as traders pare back their expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, now pricing in just one reduction for the year. The upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for January is seen as a critical factor in shaping these expectations.
Key Earnings Releases
Several major companies are set to report their earnings today, which could significantly impact market sentiment:
1. CME Group Inc. (CME): Expected to report earnings per share of $2.44, a 2.95% increase year-over-year.
2. CVS Health Corporation (CVS): Analysts forecast earnings per share of $0.89, representing a 58.02% decrease from the previous year.
3. Vertiv Holdings, LLC (VRT): Projected to report earnings per share of $0.84, a 50.00% increase compared to last year.
4. Kraft Heinz Company (KHC): Expected to report earnings per share of $0.78, unchanged from the previous year.
Other notable companies reporting today include Biogen (BIIB), Cisco (CSCO), and MGM Resorts (MGM).
Upcoming Market Events
Investors are closely watching several key events that could impact market direction:
1. Consumer Price Index (CPI) Release: The January CPI report, due today, is expected to provide crucial insights into inflation trends and potentially influence Federal Reserve policy.
2. Real Average Hourly Earnings Report: This data, also releasing today, will offer a glimpse into wage growth and consumer purchasing power.
3. MBA Mortgage Applications: The weekly report on mortgage application volume will provide insights into the health of the housing market.
Major Stock News
Several companies are making headlines due to significant developments:
1. Tesla (TSLA): The electric vehicle maker’s stock is down 6.34% as concerns grow over CEO Elon Musk’s bid for OpenAI and its potential impact on Tesla’s focus.
2. Alibaba Group (BABA): Shares are up 1.31% following investor optimism about the company’s AI capabilities in iPhone production.
3. Standard Capital Markets Ltd (SCML): The company has announced its entry into the electric vehicle financing sector, offering solutions for EV batteries and electric two-wheelers.
4. East West Freight Carriers: The company has secured a service contract with East Africa’s Abyssinia Group of Industries, expected to generate ₹7.5 crore in revenue.
Market Outlook
As the trading day unfolds, market participants will be closely monitoring the CPI data and its potential impact on Federal Reserve policy. The mixed performance of futures and the cautious approach ahead of key economic data suggest that volatility may increase throughout the day.
Investors should remain vigilant, keeping an eye on both macroeconomic factors and individual company performances as they navigate the complex market landscape of early 2025.
