Markets Remain Cautious on Political Tensions

Wall Street mood remains precarious despite the gains seen in the past two sessions, as traders focus on geopolitical tensions surrounding Syria. With the U.K. Parliament rejecting a proposal to launch military attacks on Syria, the U.S. is left to tackle the situation on its own, with analysts fearing unilateral action. Meanwhile, data released across the Atlantic suggested some softness. German retail sales unexpectedly declined in July. Meanwhile, domestically, guidance issued by most companies, especially retailers, was weak. Traders may also focus on data on the manufacturing sector, consumer sentiment and personal income and spending. The Dow futures are adding 18 points, the S&P 500 Index futures are up 3 points and the Nasdaq 100 futures are rising 7.25 points. U.S. stocks rebounded on Thursday, as traders continued to pick up bargains amid the release of some fairly positive economic readings on GDP and jobless claims.