U.S. stock index futures were little changed on Sunday evening as investors assessed heightened geopolitical risks following a U.S. military attack on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
S&P 500 Futures inched 0.1% higher to 6,908.25 points, while Nasdaq 100 Futures gained 0.3% to 25,461.75 points by 20:35 ET (01:35 GMT). Dow Jones Futures traded 0.1% lower at 48,581.0 points.
Traders weigh U.S. attack on Venezuela
Wall Street closed mixed last week without a "Santa Claus" rally. On Friday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.7%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.2%, and the NASDAQ Composite ended largely flat.
Markets opened the first full trading week of January, grappling with uncertainty after the unexpected escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions over the weekend.
U.S. forces launched strikes in Venezuela and detained Maduro, flying him out of the country to face charges.
President Donald Trump confirmed the operation in a social media statement, calling it a decisive action against what he described as a criminal regime. Trump said the U.S. would oversee a “safe and orderly transition” in Venezuela, remarks that added to market unease over the scope and duration of U.S. involvement in the oil-rich nation.
Senior officials later attempted to temper expectations, saying Washington had no plans for long-term administration, but investors remained wary of potential spillovers.
Energy markets were in focus as Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves.
Beyond commodities, the geopolitical shock raised broader concerns about market volatility.
Jobs data due this week During the year-end, U.S. stocks ended unevenly amid thin liquidity, with investors reluctant to take large positions ahead of fresh catalysts and key data releases.
Looking ahead, traders are expected to focus closely on the U.S. December jobs report due on Friday, which could shape expectations for Federal Reserve policy in the months ahead.
Markets have currently priced in two more 25-basis-point rate cuts in 2026 after its latest easing in December; however, a growing divide between policymakers has kept traders cautious.
