Strong retail sector numbers push premarket stock futures higher — Nasdaq +0.32%, S&P 500 +0.26%. Market breadth looks set to improve, with small-cap futures also advancing into today’s open. For the time being, Wall Street appears to be overlooking the anticipated economic consequences of the government shutdown. The potential for a significant impact on growth increases with the duration of the shutdown, particularly for businesses that depend on the federal government’s regular operations. The company noted that powerful consumer trends, like the growing demand for protein and focus on health and wellness, have supported US egg consumption. While bird flocks remain below their historical levels due to bird flu , Cal-Maine said supply is recovering. The latest premarket stock futures indicate S&P 500 +0.22% and Nasdaq +0.31%. Positive sentiment stems from upbeat forward guidance in earnings calls from consumer discretionary leaders.
