US equity index futures showed little movement on Monday, reflecting a cautious start to the trading week as market participants balanced two competing narratives.

On one side, investors are monitoring developments in negotiations between the United States and Iran, seeking clarity on whether diplomatic progress can ease persistent geopolitical tensions.

On the other, attention is fixed on upcoming inflation data that will provide critical insight into the Federal Reserve’s policy path.

The subdued pre-market activity follows a volatile session last week, during which Asia-Pacific markets declined in the wake of Wall Street’s pullback.

Renewed friction between Washington and Tehran has pushed oil prices higher, raising concerns about energy supply disruptions and their potential to reignite inflationary pressures.

The conflict has already begun to ripple through broader markets, with retailers warning that cost increases could extend beyond energy into consumer goods and services.