US stock index futures were little changed on Friday after major averages advanced in the prior session, with the S&P 500 notching fresh record highs. On Thursday, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite gained 0.65% and 0.81%, respectively, putting both indexes on track for a third consecutive week of gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also added 70 points, though it remained on pace to end the week lower.
Seven of the 11 S&P 500 sectors finished higher, led by communication services, real estate, and technology. The advance followed producer price data for July showing both headline and core readings rising less than expected, reinforcing the previous day’s subdued CPI report and easing recent worries over hawkish commentary from Federal Open Market Committee officials.
Investors now look ahead to July retail sales figures for further insight into the economy’s underlying strength. No major earnings releases are scheduled for Friday.
