New York City, NY – Stock futures showed a slight uptick on Friday as investors faced the final trading day of a challenging week and month, eagerly anticipating crucial inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures rose 154 points, or 0.4%, while S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq-100 futures surged by 0.4% and 0.1%, respectively.

Investors are eagerly awaiting the release of the personal consumption expenditures price index, the Federal Reserve’s favored measure of inflation. Economists project a 0.3% increase from December, with an annualized gain of 2.5%. The core PCE, excluding volatile food and energy prices, is expected to rise by 0.3% on a monthly basis and 2.6% on a yearly basis.

This report comes at a time when the Nasdaq Composite has experienced significant declines, sliding approximately 5.5% in February, primarily due to a 5% drop this week. The S&P 500 has also seen a 2.5% decrease for the week, while the Dow has only retreated by 0.4%, both facing nearly 3% losses for the month.

Investor jitters have been fueled by President Donald Trump’s recent announcements of tariffs and concerning economic reports. The market was further unsettled by an 8.5% decline in Nvidia’s stock after a disappointing earnings report. Analysts emphasize the importance of clarity on tariffs, inflation rates, and consumer behavior for investors seeking a more stable market.

Michael Landsberg, chief investment officer at Landsberg Bennett Private Wealth Management, noted, “February historically brings volatility to the stock market, and we are witnessing this trend unfold currently. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs, inflation, and consumer trends is driving investor sentiment.”

As the market closes out the week and month, all eyes are on the upcoming inflation data release and its potential impact on future market movements. Investors are on edge, grappling with uncertainties and eagerly seeking signs of stability in the ever-evolving financial landscape.