Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain a significant challenge for investors. U.S. stock futures strengthened their positions on Monday night, as investors monitored simmering tensions between the countries while weighing the potential impact of tighter monetary policy from the Federal Reserve.
Futures tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 34 points or 0.1%. Additionally, the S&P 500 futures advanced 0.2%, and Nasdaq 100 futures added 0.3%.
Investors and U.S. stocks
U.S. stocks declined on Monday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 171.89 points to 34,566.17, dragged down by losses in Walgreens Boots Alliance and Chevron. On the same day, the S&P 500 declined 0.4% to 4,401.67, and the Nasdaq Composite closed less than one point lower at 13,790.92.
Investors are closely monitoring geopolitical risks. U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the situation during a phone call. Joe Biden tried to dissuade Vladimir Putin from attacking Ukraine. Leaders were unable to reach an agreement.
Some airlines canceled or diverted flights to Ukraine amid heightened fears that an invasion by the Russian Federation is imminent in spite of intensive weekend talks between Russia and the West.
Canada closed its embassy in Kyiv and relocated its diplomatic staff to a temporary office in Lviv. The city is home to a Ukrainian military base that served as the main hub for Canada’s 200-soldier training mission in Ukraine. So, investors have to keep an eye on numerous actions.
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made an important decision. He decided to close the U.S. embassy in Kyiv. He also directed embassy staff to relocate to Lviv.
On Saturday, Dutch airline KLM canceled flights to Ukraine. In fact, the Ukrainian charter airline SkyUp’s flight from Madeira to Kyiv was diverted to the Moldovan capital Chisinau. The plane’s Irish lessor made the decision to ban flights in the country’s airspace.
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