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S&P 500, Nasdaq Rally, Middle East Peace Optimism Drive US Equity Futures Higher Pre-Bell

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US equity futures were rising pre-bell Wednesday as the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq reached new all-time highs amid continued optimism for an end to the Middle East conflict.

Dow Jones Industrial Average futures were 0.2% higher, S&P 500 futures were up 0.3%, and Nasdaq futures were 0.7% higher.

The S&P 500 added 0.6% and the Nasdaq rose 1.2% to fresh intraday and closing highs, driven by an upswing in the technology sector.

President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social that talks with Iran were "proceeding nicely." However, Iran threatened to respond to ceasefire violations after the US military carried out what it called "self-defense strikes" on Iranian missile launch sites and vessels around the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations to end the war continue.

Traders noted the latest round of earnings, with PDD (PDD) posting lower Q1 non-GAAP earnings amid higher revenue.

Oil prices were lower, with front-month global benchmark North Sea Brent crude down 2.5% at $94.29 per barrel and US West Texas Intermediate crude 3.5% lower at $90.64 per barrel.

The Richmond Fed manufacturing index for May is scheduled to be released at 10 am ET.

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