Nasdaq 100: Tech Stocks Rally as Apple and Chipmakers Lead Market Gains Today

Nasdaq-100 Futures Rise on Apple Earnings; Inflation Data in Focus

Stock futures moved higher on Friday as investors assessed Apple’s latest earnings report and anticipated key inflation data. Nasdaq-100 futures climbed 0.7%, while S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures rose 0.4% and 0.3%, respectively.

Are Apple’s Earnings Boosting Tech Stocks?

Apple shares surged 4% in extended trading after the company exceeded analyst expectations for earnings and revenue, despite softer iPhone sales. Strong services revenue drove optimism, bolstering investor confidence in the tech sector.

Chipmakers also benefited, with Intel and KLA rising 1% and 4%, respectively, on strong earnings results. However, Deckers Outdoor faced a sharp 15% drop after its revenue forecast missed estimates, despite quarterly results beating expectations.

How Are Major Indexes Positioned for the Week?

This week saw significant volatility, especially in tech stocks, due to developments from China’s DeepSeek AI and mixed earnings reports. While the Dow Jones is set to finish the week up 1%, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite are on track for declines of 0.5% and 1.4%, respectively. However, all three indexes are poised for gains in January, with the Dow leading at 5.5%.

Will the PCE Inflation Report Affect Market Sentiment?

Investors are closely watching December’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index, the Federal Reserve’s key inflation gauge. A softer reading could support hopes for Fed rate cuts, while a higher-than-expected print may fuel concerns about ongoing inflation. Treasury yields edged higher as traders positioned ahead of the data release.

Exxon Mobil’s Earnings Beat Expectations, But Revenue Misses

Exxon Mobil reported fourth-quarter earnings of $1.67 per share, topping analyst estimates of $1.55. However, revenue fell short at $83.43 billion, missing the forecast of $86.33 billion. Shares were largely unchanged in premarket trading.

Why Did Deckers Shares Slump Despite an Earnings Beat?

Despite posting stronger-than-expected earnings, Deckers Outdoor saw its shares fall 14% due to weak revenue guidance. The company raised its full-year earnings forecast, but concerns over slowing sales growth and margin pressures weighed on investor sentiment.

What Should Investors Watch Next?

All eyes are on the PCE inflation data, which could set the tone for market sentiment heading into February. A softer inflation reading might lift equities, while a hotter print could pressure stocks and boost the dollar. Earnings season also continues, with key reports providing further market direction.

More Information in our Economic Calendar.