The unique structure of NQ futures trading hours allows hedgers to stay active during geopolitical tensions. Futures jumped 0.2% as positive diplomatic talks eased chip trade restrictions, boosting Nasdaq’s semiconductor index. Earlier in the session, markets tumbled on the news that US GDP contracted by 0.3% in Q1 — a sharp reversal from the 2.4% growth posted in the final quarter of 2024. This marks the first US economic contraction since Q1 2022 and precedes the full impact of recent tariffs on imported goods. The president's much-anticipated "Liberation Day" announcement saw the White House announce a 10% tariff floor to be imposed on all US trading partners while a range of countries will see effective rates significantly higher than that. During NQ futures trading hours, volume correlations with the cash market guide intraday strategies. Futures are tracking 0.3% above yesterday’s close, aligning with strong options call activity in mega-cap tech names.