Stock Market Today: Indexes Edge Higher as US-China Trade Talks Loom
US stock markets are showing cautious optimism on Friday, May 9, 2025, as investors await crucial trade talks between the United States and China scheduled to begin this weekend. The market’s mood remains tentatively positive following President Trump’s announcement of a trade deal with the United Kingdom yesterday.
Current Market Performance
As of early trading on Friday, major indexes are posting modest gains. The S&P 500 futures are up 0.3% at 5,701.75, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average futures have gained 0.14% to 41,527.00.
This slight upward movement comes after Thursday’s more substantial rally when the Dow closed 200 points higher following Trump’s UK trade deal announcement.
Trade Developments Driving Market Sentiment
US-China Trade Talks are dominating market sentiment today. President Trump has maintained an optimistic tone about the upcoming negotiations with China, describing them as “substantive” and suggesting that the recently imposed 145% tariff on Chinese imports could be reduced.
The US-UK Trade Deal announced yesterday continues to boost certain sectors. British Airways owner IAG unveiled plans to purchase 71 long-haul aircraft from Airbus and Boeing, a major fleet expansion that comes just a day after the trade agreement was announced.
Major Company News
Several notable companies are making headlines today:
– **Enbridge Inc (ENB)** is reporting Q1 2025 earnings before market open, with analysts expecting EPS of $0.68, unchanged from the same quarter last year.
– **Plains All American Pipeline (PAA)** is also releasing Q1 results today, with forecasts pointing to a 4.88% increase in earnings compared to last year.
– **D-Wave Quantum Inc (QBTS)** is today’s top gainer so far, surging an impressive 51.23% to $10.42.
– **Cleveland-Cliffs Inc (CLF)** leads the losers, dropping 15.78% to $7.15.
– **Tech giants** including Apple (AAPL), Nvidia (NVDA), Meta Platforms (META), Tesla (TSLA), and Amazon (AMZN) are all showing strength in pre-market trading, each gaining more than 1%.
Upcoming Market Events
While today’s economic calendar is relatively light with no major economic reports scheduled,
1. **Federal Reserve Commentary**: Multiple Fed governors and presidents are scheduled to speak today, which could provide insights into future monetary policy direction.
2. **Lockheed Martin Annual Meeting**: The defense contractor is holding its annual shareholders meeting today, which could impact the defense sector.
3. **Earnings Reports**: Besides Enbridge and Plains All American Pipeline, other notable companies reporting earnings today include Starwood Property Trust (STWD), Essent Group (ESNT), and TXNM Energy (TXNM).
Market Outlook
The market’s cautious optimism reflects the delicate balance of positive developments against ongoing uncertainties. While the UK trade deal has provided some relief, the upcoming US-China talks represent a significant wildcard that could dramatically shift market sentiment in either direction.
As one analyst put it, “With US-China talks set to begin this weekend, the only clear certainty for next week is that any signs of progress — or a lack thereof — will influence market sentiment.”
Investors should remain vigilant as trade negotiations unfold, potentially setting the tone for market performance in the coming weeks.
