Why are futures down in overnight trading? Asia-Pacific sell-off, triggered by contracting Japanese machinery orders, spilled into U.S. futures. The global growth scare pushed Dow futures 0.4% lower, with industrial stocks under most pressure. Disgruntled Gers fans again bombarded their boss with vitriol and many supporters have long since given up on the former Southampton manager following a disastrous start to his tenure which now shows five wins in 17 matches, including defeats in the opening two Europa League games to Genk and Sturm Graz. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ( ^DJI ) gained nearly 0.1% to post its second all-time high close in a row this week. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ) increased 0.4%, just a stone's throw away from its own record. Why are futures down amid earnings season? Mixed results from large-cap retailers fueled fears inventory levels remain elevated. Lowering Q1 guidance in consumer goods weighed on sentiment, pushing futures by 0.44% lower.