Stock Futures Rising as Treasury Yields Slip

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Stocks looked set to extend gains on Friday after mostly finishing higher the previous day.

The market is getting a lift from a busy earnings season, economic data, and a slight retreat in bond yields as traders assess how much the Federal Reserve might lower interest rates over the next few months. Thursday’s initial jobless claims came in a little better than expected, and new home sales were also a bit stronger.

Investors will now have the weekend to catch their breath. The biggest event on the horizon is the presidential election on Nov. 5 between former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Aside from that, new figures on inflation and economic growth are due next week, along with another clutch of earnings from companies including McDonalds, Pfizer, and Exxon Mobil.