The US stock market is set for a strong open, with futures indicating gains across the board. As of pre-market trading:

• S&P 500 (ES) +1.1%
• Nasdaq (NQ) +1.4%
• Russell 2000 (RTY) +1.3%

Here are the top individual stock movers before the market opens:

Losers

• Super Micro Computer ($SMCI) -2.5%: Shares are under pressure after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock. Investors are reacting to the shift in analyst sentiment, leading to a notable decline in pre-market trading.
• James Hardie Industries ($JHX) -14%: The company announced its acquisition of AZEK for a hefty $8.75 billion. Under the deal, AZEK shareholders will receive $56.88 per share. The market appears to be responding negatively to the price tag of the transaction.
• Lockheed Martin ($LMT) -2%: The aerospace and defense giant saw its stock dip following a downgrade by Bank of America. The downgrade comes amid concerns about defense spending and broader geopolitical uncertainties.

Gainers

• FedEx ($FDX) +1%: Shares are up after Jefferies upgraded the stock. The investment firm sees potential upside in FedEx’s operations, possibly citing efficiency improvements or favorable industry trends.
• Ally Financial ($ALLY) +2%: Citi has placed the stock on a 90-day positive catalyst watch, suggesting a potential near-term opportunity for investors.
• Kenvue ($KVUE) +1.5%: The stock is getting a boost after TOMS Capital disclosed a stake and is urging the company to consider a full sale or divest some assets.
• Nvidia ($NVDA) +2%: Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, including Malaysia’s crackdown on Nvidia chip flows under US pressure, the stock continues to rally. Investors remain optimistic about Nvidia’s dominance in the AI and semiconductor space.
• Dun & Bradstreet ($DNB) +4%: Shares surged after news broke that Clearlake Capital is acquiring the company for $9.15 per share in cash. The deal price represents a premium over Friday’s closing price of $8.73.

Market Outlook

With a strong pre-market setup and key upgrades and acquisitions influencing sentiment, the market appears primed for an active session. Traders will keep an eye on macroeconomic indicators, Federal Reserve commentary, and sector-specific developments as trading unfolds.

Stay tuned for further updates as the trading day progresses!