US equity futures declined in early Asian trading on September 14, 2026, as investors weighed new concerns regarding the pace of AI development against hotter-than-expected US inflation. This inflation data has bolstered expectations that the Federal Reserve might raise interest rates at its upcoming meeting. Futures on the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 Index fell 1.2%, despite the underlying benchmark gaining 0.9% on Friday. S&P 500 futures also saw a decrease.
The decline in tech-focused futures is partly attributed to warnings from AI executives about slowing technology development. This sentiment is expected to particularly impact chipmaker and supply-chain stocks in the short term, although market watchers anticipate a limited long-term effect due to continued strong spending on computing infrastructure.
Adding to market volatility, oil prices advanced. Global benchmark Brent crude rose towards $108 a barrel, after rallying almost 9% last week, while West Texas Intermediate was near $103. This surge followed Saudi Arabia's decision to shut down a major crude pipeline as a precaution after attacks, disrupting a key route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz and exacerbating a global energy crunch. The closure also pushed European natural gas prices up by as much as 3.8%.
