NEW YORK — U.S. stock futures posted slight gains Sept. 30, 2026, with the E-mini S&P 500 advancing 0.01 percent and Nasdaq-100 minis up 0.2 percent as investors digested mixed global economic signals.
Carnival (CCL) surged 13.41 percent after reporting Q3 earnings and completing a $1.2 billion share buyback. The cruise operator's stock strength suggests investor confidence despite persistent inflation concerns.
Bloom Energy (BE) jumped 10.80 percent on analyst price-target increases tied to its new Fremont facility. Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) gained 7.45 percent following Fresh Buy ratings tied to the company's Sandals Resorts investment plan.
Pershing Square (PS) fell 9.48 percent after a downgrade to Hold on valuation concerns. Steel Dynamics (STLD) dropped 3.69 percent as news of a proposed $15 billion rival steel plant signaled increased competitive pressure.
Global inflation data remains in focus. Spain reported 4.9 percent inflation, while Australia's cash rate stands at 4.60 percent. Consumer borrowing in the United Kingdom reached £2.5 billion in August, though new mortgage activity has slowed. These figures keep pressure on rate-sensitive sectors including banks, real estate, and smaller U.S. companies dependent on credit.
Key earnings reports this week: Micron Technology (MU) reports Q4 2026 results today, with focus on chip demand and memory pricing. Jabil (JBL) releases Q4 2026 results pre-market today. Accenture (ACN) follows with Q4 2026 pre-market Thursday. Nike (NKE) reports Q1 2027 after the close Thursday, with investor attention on consumer demand and inventory management.
