Global equity markets staged a strong comeback on Thursday, January 22, 2026, with U.S. futures and major indices leading the charge. Strong economic data and a notable reduction in global trade tensions propelled the rise, which set an optimistic tone for markets across the globe.
U.S. Futures and Indices: Dow Jones, S&P 500, Nasdaq All in the Green
The pre-market sentiment was decidedly bullish. U.S. stock index futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded higher, building on the previous session’s momentum. The catalyst was a clear reduction in geopolitical uncertainty after President Trump announced a framework for a deal regarding Greenland and withdrew imminent tariff threats against European allies.
Dow Jones Futures (Mar ’26): 49,691.00, +426.00 (+0.86%)
S&P 500 Futures (Mar ’26): 6,955.75, +45.75 (+0.66%)
Nasdaq 100 Futures (Mar ’26): 25,673.50, +202.50 (+0.80%)
NYSE Composite: 22,878.23, +151.72 (+0.67%)
The cash markets followed suit, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing at 49,591.03 (+1.04%), the S&P 500 at 6,933.09 (+0.84%), and the Nasdaq Composite at 23,490.37 (+1.14%). Technology stocks, led by giants like Nvidia and Meta Platforms, were at the forefront of the rally.
Dow Jones Futures Today: Live Updates Show Strong Pre-Market Gain
With Dow Jones Futures (Mar ’26) rising 426 points, or 0.86%, to 49,691.00, pre-market activity revealed strong buying interest. Investor relief over avoided tariffs was reflected in this rise, which set the tone for the trading session.
S&P 500 and Nasdaq Rally as Tech Leads Charge
The cash markets saw strong gains after the futures. The Nasdaq Composite outperformed, rising 1.14% to 23,490.37, while the S&P 500 closed at 6,933.09, up 0.84%. Leading the charge and maintaining their recent momentum were technology stocks.
NYSE Composite Rises in Broad-Based Market Advance
It was not just a tech rally. The NYSE Composite, which represents several different industries, closed at 22,878.23 after rising 0.67%. This widespread action highlighted the relief felt by the market as a whole due to less trade uncertainty.
Indian Markets: Sensex and Nifty Close Higher
Mirroring the global upswing, Indian indices ended in the green. The Sensex rose 398 points to 82,307.37, and the Nifty gained 132 points to 25,289.90. The Midcap index outperformed by a significant margin, while larger markets saw even higher advances.
Key Drivers: From Trade Truce to Earnings
Trade Optimism:The main factor that directly improved market mood was the elimination of tariff threats against Europe.
Economic Data: Strong U.S. economic indicators supported a stable monetary policy outlook.
Stock-Specific Action: In India, Eternal (Zomato) saw volatility after its earnings, while Dr. Reddy’s increased by more than 5%. Waaree Energies saw a nearly 10% increase due to positive guidance.
Institutional Activity and Global Cues
Strong purchases by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) countered the trend of foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continuing to be net sellers of Indian stocks. Goldman Sachs increased their long-term gold prediction globally, contributing to the noteworthy market themes of the day.
