The Morning Bull - US Market Morning Update Thursday, Sep, 17 2026
US market futures are pointing slightly higher this morning, with E-mini S&P 500 contracts up about 0.2%, as investors weigh the cost of money against the cost of living. The Federal Reserve is expected to lift its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points in September to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%, which means higher borrowing costs for mortgages, credit cards and business loans. At the same time, the 10-year US government bond yield is hovering near 5%, its first test of that level since 2007, while firm oil prices keep pressure on inflation. The big question now is whether higher rates meant to cool the economy will hit interest-rate-sensitive areas like real estate and utilities harder than cash-rich technology and energy stocks. That tension is what will likely shape today’s opening mood.
With bond yields pressing toward 5% and borrowing costs climbing, many investors are hunting for balance-sheet strength and resilient cash flows using list of solid balance sheet and fundamentals (22 results).
Top Movers
- Lumentum Holdings (LITE) surged 9.59% on continued interest in optical and telecom hardware stocks.
- FTAI Aviation (FTAI) jumped 7.59% after announcing a US$500m share repurchase program funded with cash.
- Credo Technology Group Holding (CRDO) gained 7.38% following the launch of its 1.6T ZeroFlap optical transceivers for AI networks.
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Top Losers
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) fell 13.30% after cutting guidance and facing multiple analyst price target reductions.
- ON Semiconductor (ON) declined 9.02% despite unveiling its new Embedded Power Platform and Subaru collaboration.
- Diamondback Energy (FANG) dropped 8.03%.
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On The Radar
Central bank policy remains the main story for US traders, with a side focus on insurance and gaming earnings.
- Fed Policy Path: The expected 25 bp September hike to 3.75% to 4.00% keeps borrowing costs in sharp focus.
- Global Yields: 10-year US Treasuries near 5% while German Bund and Sweden yields track tighter financial conditions worldwide.
- Progressive (PGR) August results on Friday offer a fresh read on underwriting trends and claims costs for insurers.
- Take-Two Interactive Software (TTWO) AGM on Thursday addresses board elections, pay, liability limits and auditor ratification.
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How To Act On Today's Market
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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
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