U.S. stock index futures edged higher early Wednesday following news that trade negotiations between the U.S. and China are set to resume this week. However, gains remained modest as investors awaited the outcome of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting.
As of 05:35 ET (09:35 GMT), Dow Jones Futures were up 200 points, or 0.5%, while S&P 500 Futures added 26 points, also 0.5% higher. Nasdaq 100 Futures rose by 100 points, a 0.5% increase.
Markets Regain Ground After Tuesday Losses
Investor sentiment improved Wednesday on optimism that renewed dialogue between the world’s two largest economies might ease global trade tensions. This followed a down day on Wall Street Tuesday, where concerns over tariffs and the Fed’s upcoming decision weighed on stocks.
U.S. and China Set to Resume Talks in Switzerland
The U.S. Treasury Department and Office of the Trade Representative confirmed late Tuesday that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will travel to Switzerland for trade discussions with their Chinese counterparts on May 8.
China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng, who leads Beijing’s U.S.-China economic strategy, is expected to meet with Bessent during the visit, according to media reports.
The announcement marks a potential turning point in the tense relationship between Washington and Beijing, which sharply deteriorated in April amid an escalating tariff battle.
Global Growth Concerns Linger
Recent weak economic data from both the U.S. and China have heightened fears that a prolonged trade dispute could significantly disrupt global growth. Investors are watching closely for signs of progress in talks, as well as any signals from the Federal Reserve on how it plans to navigate the current economic climate.
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