5 Things to Know Before the Stock Market Opens Wednesday

Here are five key things investors need to know to start the trading day:

While the government shutdown could be over soon, expect a staggered return of crucial economic data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The interruption has created a backlog, requiring agencies to prioritize data collection and analysis. Goldman Sachs estimates a potential release schedule from the BLS early next week, assuming the shutdown concludes this week, but the actual data itself will likely follow later.

Market participants are particularly focused on upcoming labor market reports, as alternative datasets suggest a potential softening. This comes amid growing concerns about “ghost job” postings, listings that remain active despite seeming never to be filled, further complicating the employment picture. The implications of these “ghost jobs” could skew traditional employment metrics, demanding a more nuanced interpretation of labor market dynamics.

A potential “tariff rebate” proposed over the weekend is facing skepticism from policy analysts. The idea of providing Americans with a “dividend” funded by tariff revenue is unlikely to materialize quickly and also carries the risk of exacerbating inflationary pressures. The complexity of implementing such a program, differentiating between income levels, and managing the potential for market distortions are significant hurdles.

Separately, U.S. importers are anticipating a straightforward refund process if the Supreme Court rules against current tariff policies. The legal challenges to these trade levies have created uncertainty for businesses, impacting supply chains and import costs. A Supreme Court decision against the tariffs could trigger a substantial logistical undertaking to reimburse affected companies.

The Senate Agriculture Committee has released a draft of its portion of a market structure bill for digital assets, marking a pivotal step toward mainstream cryptocurrency adoption. This development seeks to establish regulatory clarity and investor protections within the digital asset space.

The draft outlines a framework designed to place necessary guardrails on the industry and institutions participating in digital asset activities. It addresses critical issues such as custody requirements, market manipulation prevention, and the classification of digital assets. Analysts view this proposed legislation as a significant move toward legitimizing cryptocurrencies and fostering institutional investment. Widespread adoption hinges on establishing clear regulatory frameworks.

On, is bucking the trend seen in other sportswear businesses. The company announced better-than-expected earnings and upgraded its outlook, signaling strong demand without relying on Black Friday discounts. The company benefits from strong brand recognition and its association with elite athletes, creating a premium perception fueling sales growth. This strategic positioning enables On to maintain pricing power and avoid aggressive promotional activities.

Oura, the smart ring manufacturer, projects sales of $2 billion in 2026, driven by the rising demand for personal health tracking technology. The company’s recent $900 million funding round values it at $11 billion, signaling strong investor confidence in its growth prospects. Oura’s focus on providing personalized health insights and its subscription-based revenue model contribute to its financial success. While an IPO isn’t immediately on the horizon, the company’s performance is closely monitored by investors.

Consumer sentiment is significantly influenced by individual stock ownership levels. Higher stock ownership correlates with increased economic confidence, reflecting the wealth effect and positive market perceptions. This divergence in sentiment highlights the varying economic realities and expectations among different segments of the population. A potential correction in the equity market could significantly impact sentiment, particularly among wealthier investors.