Stock Market Today: Wall Street Futures Rise as November Opens With Earnings, AI, and Fed in Focus

US stock futures edged higher on Monday as investors welcomed November with renewed optimism, driven by strong earnings momentum, AI-fueled tech growth, and focus on the Federal Reserve’s next moves.

At the opening bell, S&P 500 futures rose 0.2%, Nasdaq 100 futures gained 0.3%, while Dow Jones Industrial Average futures added 0.1%, extending October’s winning streak.

Wall Street Builds on October Gains

October turned out to be a robust month for Wall Street, with all three major indices finishing higher:

S&P 500 up 2.3%

Dow Jones rising 2.5%

Nasdaq Composite surging 4.7%

Investors have continued to pour into AI-linked and tech-driven stocks, with the “Magnificent Seven” leading the rally. Easing tensions between the US and China also provided a positive backdrop for risk assets.

Washington Uncertainty Looms

However, a US government shutdown has delayed critical economic data releases — including the October jobs report — leaving investors without some key indicators.

Adding to the mix, the US Supreme Court is expected to begin hearings this week on President Trump’s tariff policies, which could have a major impact on global trade and market sentiment.

Earnings Season Highlights

Earnings season remains in full swing, with over 300 S&P 500 companies already reporting third-quarter results. Another 100-plus companies are set to announce results this week, including:

Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

Super Micro Computer (SMCI)

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)

With the absence of some government reports, investors will closely watch upcoming releases from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and S&P Global for insights into the manufacturing and services sectors.

Meanwhile, the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index, expected on Friday, will provide clues on consumer confidence amid concerns of a spending slowdown.

Gold Prices Slip Below $4,000 as China Ends Tax Perk

In commodities, Gold (GC=F) fell below the $4,000 per ounce level after China scrapped a tax incentive for retailers selling gold purchased from the Shanghai Gold Exchange and Shanghai Futures Exchange, according to Bloomberg.

The policy change sent bullion prices down about 1% in Asian trading. Gold, which hit record highs in early October, remains over 50% higher year-to-date, supported by strong central bank buying and safe-haven demand.

“While Chinese gold demand hasn’t been a major driver of this year’s record bull market, the tax changes could dent sentiment globally,” said Adrian Ash, Research Director at BullionVault. “This correction could offer traders an opportunity after last month’s sharp rally.”

Market Snapshot (As of 11:30 AM IST)

Index Latest Change % Change

Dow Jones Futures (YM=F) 47,740 +18 +0.04%

S&P 500 Futures (ES=F) — +0.20% +0.20%

Nasdaq 100 Futures (NQ=F) — +0.30% +0.30%

Gold (GC=F) $3,973 -1.00% ▼

As November begins, Wall Street’s tone remains cautiously optimistic. Investors are betting on AI and tech strength, digesting corporate earnings, and closely watching the Fed’s next move — all while navigating a complex political and economic backdrop.