US stock futures signaled a cautious but stabilizing mood on December 11, 2025, with the Dow and Russell 2000 showing early strength while the Nasdaq moved slightly lower. A sharp drop in the VIX suggested easing fear levels, even as gold softened.
Dow Futures Lead Gains
Dow Futures: 48,848 | +102.00 (+0.21%)
The Dow posted the strongest early move, reflecting investor interest in industrials and blue-chip names after a volatile week.
S&P 500 Futures Hold Flat
S&P Futures: 6,909.50 | +2.25 (+0.03%)
The S&P showed minimal movement, indicating a wait-and-watch stance ahead of key economic data releases.
Nasdaq Futures Dip
Nasdaq Futures: 25,695.50 | -18.00 (-0.07%)
Tech stocks faced mild pressure, as the sector continues to digest earnings projections and elevated valuations.
Small Caps Outperform
Russell 2000 Futures: 2,601.90 | +8.70 (+0.34%)
Small-cap equities pushed higher, suggesting early risk appetite among traders despite the mixed broader setup.
Volatility Index Slides Sharply
VIX: 14.85 | -0.92 (-5.83%)
A steep decline in the VIX signaled cooling market anxiety, often a positive short-term indicator for equities.
Gold Inches Lower
Gold: $4,300.80 | -12.20 (-0.28%)
Gold prices slipped as investors favored equities and yields remained steady.
Takeaway
The overall futures picture points to a steady open with a mild risk-on tilt, led by the Dow and Russell 2000. Tech remains under slight pressure, but the falling VIX suggests improving sentiment as traders position for the next round of macro cues.
