US stock futures edged higher on Thursday as investors reacted to growing hopes for a potential US-Iran peace agreement and strong AI-driven earnings momentum.
Dow Jones futures climbed 0.2%, while S&P 500 futures gained 0.1%. Nasdaq 100 futures also rose 0.2% after Wall Street indexes closed at fresh record highs on Wednesday.
Markets were boosted by reports that Iran is reviewing a US proposal to end the nearly 10-week conflict. Brent crude dropped toward $99 per barrel, while WTI traded near $93, easing inflation concerns. Gold prices extended gains, rising above $4,700 an ounce after surging 3% in the previous session.
Tech stocks stayed in focus as investors continued to bet on AI growth. Arm shares slipped in premarket trading despite upbeat revenue guidance, with concerns over chip supply weighing on sentiment.
McDonald’s is also set to report earnings before the bell. Analysts expect US same-store sales growth of 3.9% in Q1, supported by new low-cost meal deals and the launch of its viral Big Arch burger.
In currency markets, Japan signaled it is ready to continue defending the yen after recent interventions estimated at around $35 billion. The yen traded near 156 per dollar as traders awaited comments from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his upcoming visit to Tokyo.
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