The global macro picture is shifting. U.S. stock futures faced headwinds early in the week as markets grappled with the implications of proposed tariffs. Despite the uncertainty, the Nasdaq Composite managed a gain, driven by strength in technology shares. The QQQ ETF advanced 0.88%, reflecting the sector's resilience. Meanwhile, the SPY ETF saw a rise of 0.72% and the DIA ETF increased by 0.34%. The IWM ETF remained flat at 0.00%.
European stocks are anticipated to open lower, mirroring the cautious sentiment surrounding the tariff policies. President Trump's proposed tariffs and U.S. tensions with Iran have contributed to broader risk aversion. In energy markets, Goldman Sachs revised its Brent and West Texas Intermediate crude forecasts upward for the fourth quarter of 2026, citing lower OECD stocks, with targets of $60 and $56 respectively.
In other news, XRP is gaining traction in U.S. policy circles. Arizona lawmakers are considering legislation that would allow the state to include XRP as part of a proposed Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund. The bill has cleared a key committee vote and is progressing through the legislative process. This move highlights the increasing acceptance of digital assets within the traditional financial system, although broader market sentiment remains sensitive to geopolitical and trade developments.
Macro regimes don't change overnight—but when they do, it matters.