Wall Street Futures Hold Ground as Inflation Report Looms

 

On August 12, 2025, U.S. stock futures remained largely unchanged as traders braced for a key consumer inflation release that could shape Federal Reserve policy moving forward. Markets are assigning an approximately 88% probability to a 25-basis-point rate cut in September, reflecting recent softness in employment figures. July’s inflation data is expected to reveal a moderate uptick, with core inflation possibly reaching its most robust reading in half a year.

Positive momentum derived from the U.S. and China agreeing to extend their tariff truce until November 10; this move helped ease global trade tensions. Still, skepticism lingers around the credibility of U.S. economic reporting, particularly after the dismissal of the Bureau of Labor Statistics chief amidst recent payroll data revisions. All eyes are on Trump’s pick for BLS commissioner, E.J. Antoni, as well as potential successors for the Federal Reserve chairmanship.

In early trading, Intel shares climbed about 3% after President Trump offered public support for its CEO. Meanwhile, Hanesbrands rocketed roughly 47% amid acquisition chatter involving Gildan Activewear. Other stocks that posted notable gains include Circle Internet, Venture Global, Palo Alto Networks, and On Holding—which also raised its annual revenue projections.