Introduction: Markets Rise on Fed Hopes and Tech Catalysts

U.S. stock market futures are rising this morning, September 8, 2025. Investors are reacting to a weaker August jobs report and preparing for Apple’s iPhone 17 event. The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures are all trading higher. Markets are also watching AppLovin and Robinhood, two new additions to the S&P 500.

Optimism over a potential Federal Reserve rate cut is boosting sentiment. Meanwhile, earnings reports and inflation data later this week will shape investor direction.

Stock Futures Move Up

Dow Jones futures rose by 0.4%, while S&P 500 futures gained 0.35%. Nasdaq 100 futures led with a 0.55% increase. The gains follow a jobs report that showed only 112,000 jobs were added in August—well below the forecast of 175,000.

This weak data has strengthened hopes for a rate cut later this month. Investors believe the Fed may pause its tightening cycle or start easing before year-end.

AppLovin and Robinhood Rally After Joining S&P 500

AppLovin (APP) and Robinhood (HOOD) are outperforming in premarket trading. Both were officially added to the S&P 500 index today. Their inclusion is attracting inflows from passive investment funds that track the index.

• AppLovin jumped over 6.5% this morning. Analysts say strong ad-tech performance and mobile gaming revenues support the rise.

• Robinhood gained nearly 5%, as investors bet on increased trading activity from retail investors in a falling-rate environment.

Apple’s iPhone 17 Event Builds Anticipation

Apple (AAPL) is preparing to launch the iPhone 17 on Tuesday. The new model is expected to include satellite messaging, a titanium frame, and battery life improvements. These upgrades may trigger a surge in upgrades from iPhone 13 and 14 users.

Apple’s event is helping lift sentiment in the tech sector. Traders expect the company to drive a Q4 revenue boost that supports hardware and software suppliers alike.

Other Sector Highlights: Tech Holds, Energy Slips

Not all sectors are sharing in the rally:

• Energy stocks fell after crude oil prices dipped slightly. Concerns remain over softening demand from Europe and China.

• Homebuilders like Lennar and D.R. Horton extended gains. Falling mortgage rates and stable housing demand are supporting the sector.

• Semiconductor stocks are mixed. While Micron and TSMC held steady, Nvidia and AMD dropped below key technical levels last week.

Tesla Bounces on CEO Deal and Robotaxi Buzz

Tesla (TSLA) climbed 2.1% after news broke of a new compensation plan for CEO Elon Musk. The company also hinted at a robotaxi unveiling during its October meeting.

The EV sector benefited from the rebound. Shares of Rivian and Lucid also moved higher in early trade.

Key Events to Watch This Week

Markets are now focused on several key reports and earnings announcements:

• U.S. CPI (Consumer Price Index) is due Wednesday. It will influence interest rate expectations.

• PPI (Producer Price Index) will follow on Thursday.

• Corporate earnings from Oracle, Adobe, and Rubrik are on the calendar.

• Traders are also monitoring political developments in Japan and France.

Outlook: Volatility Likely to Persist

While futures are rising, volatility remains a concern. Rate expectations, inflation data, and geopolitical events are still unresolved. Analysts recommend a selective strategy. Investors should look for strong fundamentals and avoid chasing momentum.

Still, optimism around the iPhone 17 and the S&P 500 changes could give bulls a short-term edge.

Conclusion

Stock market futures are rising as investors prepare for a busy week. A weaker jobs report has raised hopes for a Fed rate cut. Apple’s iPhone 17 launch and new S&P 500 entries are adding fuel to the rally.

With multiple data points and events ahead, the markets are bracing for movement—but the tone remains cautiously optimistic.