FX.co ★ US Futures Slip as Government Shutdown Looms

U.S. stock futures fell slightly on Wednesday, reflecting concerns over a potential government shutdown. This shutdown could start at midnight if Congress fails to reach a temporary funding agreement, with both Republicans and Democrats attributing the impasse to each other. Investors are keenly monitoring the situation, as a prolonged closure might postpone critical economic data releases, which are significant ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting scheduled for late October. One of these key releases includes the nonfarm payrolls report expected on Friday. Additionally, ADP's private payroll data is scheduled for release today. On Tuesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average edged up by 0.18%, while the S&P 500 increased by 0.41%, and the Nasdaq Composite rose by 0.3%. All three major indices concluded September and the third quarter with robust gains. In corporate developments, Nike's shares jumped 4.5% in after-hours trading following the announcement of stronger-than-anticipated earnings and revenue for the first quarter.