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US Futures Rise 0.82% as Oil Falls and Fed Hikes Rates

By Markets Desk · 2026-09-17 · 2 min read
A calm harbor with large cargo ships anchored in the distance under a clear sky
Illustration: Tradingbird

US stock futures climbed on Thursday following the Federal Reserve's first rate hike under new leadership. Falling oil prices reinforced investor confidence in the central bank's anti-inflation stance.

US stock index futures rose on Thursday. The Federal Reserve implemented its first interest-rate hike under Chair Kevin Warsh. This move reassured investors regarding inflation control. Oil prices retreated, further supporting equity gains. Technology stocks led the premarket advance. Nvidia and Amazon both increased by more than 1%.

The S&P 500 had lost 1.7% earlier in September. Historically, late September is a weak period for equities. The positive premarket session offers a potential counter-trend. Analysts noted that the rate hike addressed chronic market anxiety. The decision allows traders to resume standard positioning patterns.

Futures and Commodity Price Movements

At 07:05 a.m. ET, Dow E-minis rose 370 points. This represented a 0.72% gain. S&P 500 E-minis added 62 points, or 0.82%. Nasdaq 100 E-minis climbed 308.25 points, a 1.06% increase. Brent crude futures dropped more than 2% to $103.70. US West Texas Intermediate crude fell 1.7% to $100.70. The decline in energy costs reduced inflationary pressure on equities.

Fed Outlook and Rate Expectations

The Fed warned that further hikes may be necessary. Uncertainty remains regarding the ultimate peak for interest rates. Traders now price in a 58% chance of an October hike. This probability rose from 44% the day before. The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield slipped, reducing pressure on stocks. High risk-free yields typically dampen equity appeal. The Fed’s communication strategy aims to balance stability with inflation control.

Sector Performance and Geopolitical Risks

Neocloud firms saw significant premarket gains. CoreWeave shares rose 6.9%. Nebius stock increased 9.8%. IREN shares climbed 5.7%. Fluence Energy fell more than 21% after lowering its revenue forecast. Middle East tensions continue to affect global supply chains. Disruptions in the Red Sea and Saudi Arabia impact crude logistics. These factors sustain volatility in energy and shipping sectors. Investors monitor these developments closely for potential inflation impacts.

Market data from GN auto markets/indices confirms the broad-based rally. The combination of lower oil prices and a decisive Fed action created a supportive environment. Equity volatility may persist as traders assess future policy paths. The current trend depends on sustained confidence in the central bank’s strategy. No immediate reversal signals appeared in premarket trading.

Based on reporting by Yahoo Finance, compiled by the Tradingbird desk.

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