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Below are AI-generated insights on today's premarket moves, powered by MarketReader technology.

Wednesday, September 16

Noteworthy macro moves today: Copper +1.9%. US 2Y Treasury Bond Index +0.1%. Noteworthy US mega-cap moves today: Intel Corp (INTC) +3.9%. ASML Holding NV (ASML) +2.8%. Chevron Corp (CVX) -1.0%.

Global equity indices are trading mixed, with U.S. and European markets higher while Asian markets show a mixed performance, reflecting ongoing caution ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision later today. U.S. stocks are benefiting from stronger-than-expected retail sales data released this morning, which showed a month-over-month increase of 1.2% for August, surpassing forecasts of a 0.8% rise.

In the U.K., inflation data released today confirmed an annual rate of 3.1%, matching market expectations and indicating upward pressure primarily from rising transport costs, particularly motor fuels. This inflationary backdrop is contributing to expectations that the Bank of England may need to adjust its monetary policy in response to persistent price pressures.

The Euro Area's industrial production figures showed a slight decline of 0.1% in July, better than the anticipated drop of 0.2%. This performance suggests some resilience in the region's manufacturing sector despite ongoing challenges related to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions.

Market sentiment is also influenced by rising oil prices due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have contributed to increased inflation concerns globally and prompted expectations for tighter monetary policies from central banks worldwide.

VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) [+1.9%]
Gold prices have increased as oil prices pulled back from recent highs ahead of an anticipated Federal Reserve rate decision later today. The slight easing of the U.S. dollar has also contributed to a favorable environment for gold-related assets like VanEck Gold Miners ETF. Pre-market trading saw significant gains in several of the ETF's holdings, particularly Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd, which bolstered GDX's performance. This upward movement aligns with a broader trend in gold values, which are higher due to the aforementioned macroeconomic factors. Overall, GDX is gaining in pre-market hours, reflecting these positive developments.

iShares MSCI South Korea ETF (EWY) [+1.8%]
The iShares MSCI South Korea ETF is advancing in pre-market trading as the Federal Reserve is expected to announce a quarter-point interest rate hike today amid rising inflation concerns linked to increasing oil prices. This backdrop may influence the performance of EWY, particularly as it relates to economic conditions affecting the Korean firms within its portfolio. Strong gains in SK Hynix, driven by news of exploratory discussions with Intel regarding memory chip production, have contributed positively to the ETF’s performance. However, declines in Korea Electric Power Corp. have partially offset these gains. Additionally, EWY's movement appears to align with the Nasdaq 100 Index, which is also showing little change as markets await the Fed's decision.

Global X Copper Miners ETF (COPX) [+1.7%]
Strong gains among key holdings are driving the Global X Copper Miners ETF higher in pre-market trading. Notable contributors include HudBay Minerals, Southern Copper, Freeport-McMoRan, BHP, and Taseko Mines, with positive analyst actions and favorable economic data supporting their performance. HudBay Minerals had its price target raised by RBC Capital, while Southern Copper and Freeport-McMoRan benefited from rising gold prices. Additionally, crude oil prices have decreased as Saudi Arabia increases supply to Asian refiners, which may ease inflationary pressures that impact copper mining companies. Earlier in the session, the ETF pulled back from a session high but remains positioned for a higher open since Tuesday's close.

NOK | +5.9% | +3.5B
Nokia Oyj | Information Technology
Nokia Oyj announced significant advancements in its artificial intelligence-powered radio access network (AI-RAN), with operators globally moving from evaluation phases to live trials. Partnerships with A1 Group, Chunghwa Telecom, and others across various regions are part of this transition. The AI-RAN platform has achieved over 20% improvements in spectral efficiency, with further enhancements anticipated through 2028. Additionally, Nokia Defense signed a memorandum of understanding with C3IA to support digital transformation in UK defense operations, enhancing tactical communications and network interoperability. These developments have contributed to a positive market response for Nokia shares, which are gaining in pre-market trading. Earlier in the session, shares pulled back from session highs but remain higher since Tuesday's close.

TCOM | +4.8% | +1.3B
Trip.com Group Ltd | Consumer Discretionary
Trip.com Group Ltd shares gained in pre-market trading following a strong earnings report. The company reported second-quarter net revenues of RMB 15.7 billion, exceeding analyst expectations, with earnings per share of $1.07 compared to the anticipated $0.91. Chairman James Liang highlighted the long-term potential of China's inbound tourism market during the earnings call, noting a high double-digit growth rate in inbound travel revenue for Q2. Liang also set a target of serving 200 million inbound travelers over the next five years, emphasizing the company's commitment to expanding its international reach. Retail sentiment remains bullish, with confidence expressed on platforms like Stocktwits regarding Trip.com's valuation relative to its peers.

HBAN | -2.0% | -0.7B
Huntington Bancshares Inc | Financials
Huntington Bancshares Inc has lowered its fiscal year 2027 earnings per share guidance to a range of $1.75 to $1.83, down from a prior estimate of $1.90 to $1.93, which was above the consensus estimate of $1.88. The company also revised its fiscal year 2026 revenue growth forecast to 34%, reduced from 37%, and anticipates net interest income for FY26 to be about 35%, down from a previous estimate of 39% to 43%. These adjustments were announced during the Barclays Annual Global Financial Services Conference and have contributed to negative sentiment surrounding the stock. As a result, Huntington Bancshares shares are trading lower in pre-market hours.

FTAI | +3.2% | +0.6B
FTAI Aviation Ltd | Industrials
FTAI Aviation Ltd. announced a $500 million share repurchase program, effective until September 30, 2029, which will be funded through cash on its balance sheet. This news has attracted investor interest and contributed to a rise in the stock price during pre-market trading. Additionally, Barclays noted that despite reducing its price target to $310 from $350, the recent decline in FTAI shares presents a favorable entry point, with projections of up to 60% earnings growth in 2027 driven by strong utilization of its CFM56 fleet and anticipated product deliveries. The stock is trading higher in pre-market hours, showing a notable increase since Tuesday's close.

GRAB | +2.9% | +0.4B
Grab Holdings Ltd | Industrials
Grab Holdings Ltd is pursuing growth in consumer lending through its acquisition of Atome Financial for $1.49 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance Grab's financial services segment and significantly boost user growth and lending capabilities. The company projects that its gross loan portfolio could exceed $6 billion by 2028, with management raising guidance for the financial services segment to target an Adjusted EBITDA of $500 million and a revenue CAGR of over 30% from 2025 to 2028. Additionally, Grab plans to execute approximately $900 million in share buybacks over the next 12 months, reflecting confidence in its financial strength. Shares are trading higher during pre-market hours, indicating a positive market response to these developments.

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