"Key Insights to Watch in Wednesday's Stock Market Opening"

U.S. stocks had a mixed first trading day of 2024, with tech stocks and the Nasdaq taking a hit. Investors are looking ahead to the Federal Reserve's December meeting minutes and ISM manufacturing data. Apple shares dropped after a Barclays downgrade due to concerns over iPhone demand in China. Maersk has halted Red Sea shipping indefinitely after Houthi militant attacks, potentially disrupting global trade. Bitcoin surged, reaching its highest price since April 2022, amid expectations of a bitcoin ETF and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. Hollywood is investing heavily in franchises, but there's concern over audience fatigue after a lackluster performance at the box office in 2023.