Daily Brief - February 10, 2026 (Morning)

 ## Pre-Market Overview Futures are indicating a mixed opening for U.S. markets, with slight gains in the Nasdaq and modest declines in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Overnight, Asian markets saw a rally, particularly in Japan, where the Nikkei 225 surged 2.20% following the re-election of a pro-business candidate. European markets are showing signs of stabilization after recent volatility, with earnings reports influencing sector performance. In major news, retail sales in the U.S. were reported flat for December, raising concerns about consumer spending. This follows a trend of weakened retail activity, which could impact market sentiment today. Additionally, the job market remains a focal point for investors, as analysts point out that employment figures are a significant risk for market stability. ## Top Stories Moving Markets **JPMorgan Kicks Off Electronic Arts $1.5 Billion Bond Buyback** JPMorgan initiated a buyback of bonds from Electronic Arts, signaling confidence in the gaming giant’s future. Affected ticker: **$EA** This move may provide a boost to investor sentiment regarding **$EA**, particularly as the company navigates a competitive gaming landscape. **Retail Sales Flat in December, Missing Expectations** The U.S. retail sales data released showed no growth for December, contrary to expectations for a slight increase. Affected tickers: **$AMZN**, **$WMT**, **$TGT** Flat retail sales could indicate weakening consumer confidence, affecting stocks in the retail sector as investors reassess growth forecasts. **Cleveland-Cliffs Reports Improvement in 2025 Outlook** Cleveland-Cliffs announced that its issues regarding production and supply chain disruptions are either resolved or improving. Affected ticker: **$CLF** This positive outlook may support a rebound in **$CLF** shares, particularly in a market looking for recovery indicators. **Marriott Reports Strong Growth in Credit Card Fees** Marriott has reported strong growth in credit card fees, especially in markets such as Japan and the UAE. Affected ticker: **$MAR** The positive performance in credit card revenue could bolster **$MAR** and reflect broader trends in consumer spending in travel and hospitality. **Spotify Stock Jumps on Strong User Growth** Spotify's stock surged as it reported significant user growth and exceeded earnings expectations, adding 28 million users. Affected ticker: **$SPOT** This positive earnings report may attract more investors to **$SPOT**, providing momentum heading into today’s session. ## Stocks to Watch Today **$EA** - Bond buyback announcement from JPMorgan may bolster confidence in stock performance. **$AMZN** - Retail sales flat report raises concerns for future revenue growth. **$WMT** - Similar retail sales concerns may impact the stock. **$TGT** - Retail outlook remains cautious following sales data. **$CLF** - Positive production outlook could lead to a rebound in stock price. **$MAR** - Strong growth in credit card fees may support further stock gains. **$SPOT** - Strong user growth and earnings beat could attract bullish sentiment. **$CVS** - Continues to benefit from its turnaround strategy amid changing health insurance landscape. **$PD** - Analyst downgrades could weigh on performance. **$FICO** - Positive guidance after strong Q4 results. **$NIO** - Investors may react to ongoing developments in the EV sector. **$TSLA** - News on production and delivery targets could drive volatility. ## Sector Setup **Technology:** The sector is facing scrutiny due to AI-related fears and mixed earnings reports. Some analysts recommend caution. **Retail:** Negative sentiment prevails following flat retail sales data, likely impacting major retailers. **Energy:** Mixed signals as Cleveland-Cliffs reports improvements, while broader economic uncertainty persists. **Healthcare:** Companies like CVS are seeing positive adjustments, but overall sector sentiment remains cautious. ## Economic Calendar & Fed No major releases scheduled today. Investors should remain alert for any unexpected data that could impact market sentiment. ## Crypto & Commodities Gold prices have seen slight declines but remain stable above $5,000/oz. Bitcoin continues to face volatility, with recent price fluctuations keeping traders on edge. ## Trading Game Plan - Consider short positions in retail stocks like **$AMZN**, **$WMT**, and **$TGT** given the flat sales data. - Look for potential upside in **$CLF** and **$SPOT** based on positive news. - Monitor tech stocks closely for any signs of recovery or further sell-offs, particularly **$EA** and **$NIO**. - Keep an eye on consumer sentiment indicators as they could impact broader market trends. - Be cautious with investments in sectors heavily reliant on consumer spending amid recent economic data.