U.S. stock futures are pointing to a weaker open as geopolitical uncertainty, higher energy prices, and rising Treasury yields weigh on investor sentiment. Technology shares remain under pressure, while the sharp move in crude oil has put energy stocks and inflation expectations back in focus. πŸ“Š Market Snapshot Nasdaq Futures: -1.29% S&P 500 Futures: -0.85% Dow Futures: -1.04% VIX: 18.13 (+12.40%) U.S. 10-Year Treasury Yield: 4.577% WTI Crude Oil: $74.11 (+5.21%) Gold: -2.33% Bitcoin: -2.66% Dollar Index: 97.45 (+0.04%) 🚨 What's Moving the Market? Geopolitical uncertainty has increased, pushing investors toward a more defensive stance as markets assess the potential impact of further Middle East escalation on global trade and energy supplies. Energy markets are back in focus following a sharp rise in crude oil prices. A sustained increase in oil could complicate the inflation outlook and influence expectations for future monetary policy. Higher bond yields are adding pressure to equities, particularly growth-oriented sectors. The 10-Year Treasury yield is near 4.58%, creating another headwind for technology shares. Semiconductor stocks remain a key area to watch after recent weakness across the global chip sector. Investors are becoming more selective as they evaluate whether strong AI demand can continue supporting elevated growth expectations and valuations. Global risk appetite has weakened, with losses across major international equity markets adding to the cautious tone ahead of the U.S. open. πŸ“… Today's Focus & Market Outlook Markets are starting the session with a clear risk-off tone, driven by geopolitical uncertainty, higher oil prices, and rising bond yields. Attention will remain on energy and semiconductor stocks, while the 10-Year Note Auction and FOMC Minutes at 2:00 PM ET could influence yields, rate expectations, and broader market volatility.