US Stocks Brief: Nasdaq 100 Futures Down 0.15%, S&P Futures Up Near 0.1% Amid Rate-Cut Expectations

US stock futures are mixed, with the Nasdaq 100 down 0.15% and the S&P futures up near 0.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is expected to climb on rate-cut expectations. UnitedHealth shares jumped after Berkshire Hathaway bought a new stake. PayPay has filed confidentially for a US listing, and Associated British Foods is acquiring Hovis Group.

US stock futures are showing mixed sentiment on July 2, 2025. The Nasdaq 100 is down by 0.15%, while the S&P futures are up near 0.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is expected to climb on expectations of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve. UnitedHealth Group shares jumped after Berkshire Hathaway bought a new stake, while PayPal has filed confidentially for a US listing. Additionally, Associated British Foods has announced plans to acquire Hovis Group.

The Nasdaq 100's decline can be attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions and the potential impact of a Russian oil supply disruption, which could affect global energy prices. Despite this, the S&P futures are up, reflecting optimism about the potential economic boost from a rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The expected rate cut could lower borrowing costs, stimulate economic growth, and increase demand for oil, which has been a key driver of recent price movements.

UnitedHealth Group's shares surged after Berkshire Hathaway announced a new stake in the company. This move by Warren Buffett's investment vehicle could signal confidence in the healthcare sector's long-term prospects. Meanwhile, PayPal's confidential filing for a US listing indicates a potential growth opportunity in the fintech sector, while Associated British Foods' acquisition of Hovis Group suggests a strategic move to expand its food and beverage portfolio.

Reference List:
[1] https://www.marketbeat.com/instant-alerts/filing-national-bank-of-canada-fi-increases-position-in-nasdaq-inc-nasdaqndaq-2025-08-11/
[2] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/oil-prices-climb-2-1-week-high-fed-rate-cut-trump-putin-talks-loom-2025-08-14/