US Stock Futures Rise as Oil Shares Jump After Venezuela Shock

Post by : Saif Nasser

US stock futures moved slightly higher on Monday, showing early signs of recovery after losses last week. The rise was mainly driven by strong gains in oil and energy stocks following dramatic political events in Venezuela.

Futures linked to the S&P 500 rose by 0.28%, while Nasdaq futures gained 0.65%. Dow futures were nearly flat but stayed in positive territory. The market reaction came after the United States confirmed it had captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during a military operation.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that more action could follow if members of Venezuela’s remaining leadership do not cooperate with US demands. He added that Washington wants to “fix” the country, comments that quickly caught the attention of investors.

Markets reacted strongly because Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves. Many investors believe that changes in Venezuela’s leadership could eventually open the door for US oil companies to return to the country, even though a US embargo on Venezuelan oil remains in place.

Shares of major US energy firms jumped sharply in early trading. Exxon Mobil rose more than 4%, while Chevron climbed nearly 8%. Oil services companies also saw strong gains, with SLB, Halliburton, and ConocoPhillips rising between 6% and almost 10%.

Despite these gains, oil prices themselves slipped slightly on Monday due to strong global supply. Market experts said the political shock was important but not enough to cause a major and lasting jump in oil prices.

Analysts noted that any real impact may first be felt in US refineries, especially those able to handle heavy crude oil like that produced in Venezuela. These refiners could benefit if supply conditions improve in the future.

Beyond energy stocks, investors were also watching broader market trends. Wall Street ended last week on a weak note, although the S&P 500 managed a small gain in its first session of 2026. Many traders are still hopeful for a “Santa Claus rally,” a period when markets often rise during the final days of December and early January.

US stock indexes had a strong run in 2025, marking their third straight year of double-digit gains. The Dow Jones index recorded its longest monthly winning streak since 2018.

This week, attention will shift to key US economic data, especially labor market numbers. The monthly jobs report due on Friday could shape expectations about interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later this year. Markets currently expect modest rate reductions in 2026.

Other sectors also showed early strength. Stocks linked to cryptocurrencies rose as Bitcoin hit its highest level in more than three weeks. Coinbase, a major crypto exchange, climbed after receiving a positive rating from a leading investment bank.

Technology stocks also gained support from reports of possible memory chip shortages, which could push prices higher. Shares of Micron Technology, Western Digital, and Sandisk all moved up in pre-market trading.

Overall, Monday’s early gains reflected cautious optimism. While global politics added uncertainty, investors focused on potential opportunities, especially in the energy sector, as the new trading year began.