Financial Market Preview - Wednesday 18-Dec

S&P futures are indicating a slightly higher open, up +0.11% as investors await the Federal Reserve’s rate decision later today. Markets expect a 25 bps rate cut, with keen attention on the accompanying dot plot and Chair Powell’s commentary, particularly regarding the Fed's outlook for 2025 rate adjustments. In Asia, Nissan and Honda are reportedly in merger talks, accelerating due to interest from Hon Hai Precision. European focus is on UK inflation data, with headline CPI accelerating in November as expected, though core and services inflation surprised on the downside. Companies Mentioned: Nissan, Honda, Cousins Properties, NeuroMetrix