The S&P 500 and major indices experienced slight declines as AI-related stocks faced renewed pressure, with broader market concerns influenced by recent tech sector performance and upcoming economic data releases, including employment and inflation reports.
U.S. stock futures declined on Friday despite in-line inflation data for April, as disappointing earnings from major tech companies weighed on sentiment. Dell Technologies fell 21% due to a lower-than-expected earnings outlook, while MongoDB dropped 25% after issuing light guidance. Gap surged 25% on raising its full-year sales forecast, and Zscaler rose 6% following strong quarterly earnings. Other notable movers included Nordstrom, Trump Media & Technology Group, Marvell, Costco, Ambarella, Flutter Entertainment, Caesars Entertainment, Veeva Systems, and SentinelOne.
European markets were lower ahead of the European Central Bank's rate decision, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 down 0.3% in late-morning deals. Norway's central bank kept interest rates unchanged at 4.5%, citing the outlook and balance of risks. Nokia's shares rose 6% after forecasting a profit uptick, while IG Group fell 9.2% due to a fall in profits. Analysts are bullish on the healthcare sector, particularly biotech stocks, and UBS named over 10 global stocks as good plays this year amidst expectations of weak stagnation in Europe.