Wall Street Futures Dip Amid AI Skepticism and Gulf Tensions

US stock futures indicated a cautious start for Wall Street on Tuesday, with indices pointing moderately lower before the opening bell. The downward pressure is primarily attributed to a combination of shifting sentiment regarding the AI sector and escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region. The AI trade, which has driven significant market gains over the past year, is facing renewed scrutiny. Investors appear to be questioning the immediate monetization and long-term outlook for AI-related investments, leading to a cooling effect on high-growth technology stocks. Simultaneously, geopolitical instability in the Persian Gulf is adding to the risk premium. Tensions in this critical energy corridor typically trigger volatility in crude oil prices and broader market anxiety regarding global supply chain stability. While US and Asian markets are feeling the weight of these headwinds, European markets have managed to maintain positive momentum. This divergence suggests a fragmented global sentiment as traders balance sector-specific fears against broader macroeconomic indicators.