Markets brace for Fed week as gold tops $5,000 and tariff talk adds to uncertainty
Stock futures were near flat ahead of a week of big tech earnings and a Federal Reserve decision, while gold pushed above $5,000 an ounce amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty and renewed tariff threats.
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A cautious start to a pivotal week
U.S. stock futures were little changed early Monday as investors positioned for a dense week of catalysts, including major technology-company earnings reports and the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate decision. After recent volatility, traders appeared focused on whether corporate results and central-bank messaging can stabilize risk sentiment.
Gold breaks above $5,000
Gold futures moved above $5,000 per ounce for the first time and continued climbing, reflecting a broader shift toward perceived safe-haven assets. The move was framed as part of a wider response to geopolitical tension and economic uncertainty that has also supported other precious metals.
Trade and travel disruptions in the mix
In addition to macro policy and earnings, markets also weighed fresh tariff threats aimed at Canada and continued disruption from a severe winter storm that canceled large numbers of flights. Those disruptions can have direct revenue effects for airlines and ripple effects for logistics-dependent sectors.
Company spotlight: USA Rare Earths
Shares of USA Rare Earths surged after the company announced new government funding arrangements and related financing plans, underscoring investor appetite for firms positioned around strategic minerals and domestic industrial policy.