U.S. stock futures declined on Friday as investors awaited the key monthly jobs report and digested President Trump’s new executive order imposing modified “reciprocal” tariffs on dozens of countries, with rates ranging from 10% to 41%. Trump signaled openness to future negotiations but noted it was “too late” to avoid next week’s scheduled tariffs. The move added to market uncertainty, with investors concerned about global trade tensions and their potential impact on economic growth and corporate earnings.

Points to Know Before Market Opens                                                         

U.S. job growth is expected to slow sharply in July, with a projected gain of just 100,000—its weakest since October 2024. Despite signs of a cooling labor market, the Fed is unlikely to respond immediately, having kept interest rates steady during its latest policy meeting on Wednesday.

AI-human relationships, once sci-fi, are now real, with people forming romantic and platonic bonds with bots. While they address loneliness, they also raise serious ethical and safety concerns.

Investors weigh Big Tech earnings as Apple beats expectations, citing pre-tariff buying for growth, while Amazon shares dip after its weaker-than-expected outlook despite strong current-quarter results.

Southwest Airlines is introducing seat assignments starting January, with prices varying by route, demand, and seat type—potentially adding hundreds to trips, as the airline seeks new revenue streams.

The 10-year Treasury yield decreased by 0.059 points at 4.301%. The 2-year Treasury decreased by 0.014 points at 3.811%.