Nasdaq Futures Edge Higher as Market Reacts to Tech Moves and Oil Rebound

Nasdaq futures rise as tech stocks rebound, Tesla hits record, and oil prices recover from multi-year lows.

17 December 2025, 15:06 published Updated 17 December 2025, 15:06

Nasdaq Shows Strength While S&P 500 Holds Key Support

Nasdaq futures advanced early Wednesday, signaling potential upside after a mixed session on Tuesday. Alongside Nasdaq, Dow Jones and S&P 500 futures showed modest gains, while crude oil futures rebounded from multiyear lows, adding to overall market optimism.

“Overnight action in Dow futures and elsewhere doesn’t necessarily translate into actual trading in the next regular stock market session,” analysts reminded, highlighting the tentative nature of futures movements.

Nasdaq Momentum and Key Indicators

Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 0.4%, suggesting that the Nasdaq Composite may soon move above its 50-day moving average, a critical technical level for many traders. While Tuesday’s session showed mixed results for the broader market, Nasdaq displayed relative strength, reflecting strong performance in technology and growth stocks.

The S&P 500 dipped slightly but held key support levels, signaling resilience, whereas the Dow Jones futures rose 0.15%relative to fair value. Observers noted that despite these early gains, the market remains sensitive to economic reports, earnings announcements, and geopolitical developments.

Tesla and California Suspension Speculation

Tesla (TSLA) hit a record high on Tuesday, demonstrating notable strength in the market. Overnight, shares were largely unchanged amid speculation that California could suspend Tesla sales. Analysts noted that any regulatory action would not take effect immediately.

“Tesla’s shares ran to a record high Tuesday, showing relative strength,” the report stated, emphasizing that the company’s performance remains closely watched by tech-focused investors.

Tech Stocks: Breakouts and Buy Zones

Several tech stocks showed notable moves in Tuesday’s trading session. Twilio (TWLO) and United Airlines (UAL)experienced breakouts, while Palantir Technologies (PLTR) and Universal Health Services (UHS) remained just below key buy points. Notably, Palantir continues to appear on the IBD 50 and SwingTrader lists, indicating interest from technical traders.

Additionally, GE Vernova (GEV) edged higher within a recognized buy area, reflecting renewed investor interest in select industrial and tech stocks. Analysts are watching these levels closely for potential breakout opportunities in the coming sessions.

Oil Rebound and Global Market Factors

Crude oil futures rose more than 2% early Wednesday after reaching their lowest level since February 2021 on Tuesday. The rebound followed news that President Donald Trump ordered a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers in Venezuela, affecting supply expectations.

Oil market movements often influence technology and industrial sectors indirectly. For Nasdaq-listed energy and tech companies, lower oil prices can impact input costs and overall market sentiment.

Treasury Yields and Macroeconomic Indicators

The 10-year Treasury yield increased slightly to 4.18% following a decline to 4.15% on Tuesday. Rising yields can influence technology stocks, as higher interest rates affect discount rates used in valuation models for growth companies. Traders are closely monitoring Treasury movements to assess potential impacts on Nasdaq futures.

Amazon and OpenAI Collaboration

In corporate news, Amazon is reportedly in discussions to invest at least $10 billion in OpenAI. According to The Information, OpenAI would utilize Amazon’s in-house AI chips for its operations. Early Wednesday, Amazon stock rose modestly in response to the report, reflecting investor interest in artificial intelligence partnerships.

Defense Sector Moves

Meanwhile, defense stocks saw slight declines following reports that President Trump could issue an executive order this week aimed at limiting stock buybacks and dividend payouts by defense contractors. While the Nasdaq is less directly impacted by defense stock movements, broader market sentiment can influence technology sector risk appetite.

Market Outlook and Volatility

While early futures movements suggest a positive tone for the Nasdaq, market participants remain cautious. Tuesday’s November jobs report had minimal immediate impact, indicating that short-term sentiment may be driven more by corporate news, earnings, and geopolitical developments than macroeconomic releases.

“The stock market was mixed Tuesday. The S&P 500 dipped but held key support while the Nasdaq turned higher but was unable to close above a key level,” analysts noted, highlighting the ongoing volatility in tech-heavy indices.