U.S. stock futures moved slightly higher on Friday, pointing to a modestly stronger start for Wall Street as investors looked ahead to the Federal Reserve’s next interest rate decision. The cautious tone reflected a market that remains highly sensitive to any signal about the future path of borrowing costs.

Traders are watching the Fed closely for clues on whether policymakers will keep rates steady or adjust their stance in response to recent economic data. Expectations around inflation, growth, and the broader health of the labor market continue to shape sentiment across equities, bonds, and currencies.

While futures gains suggested some early optimism, investors appeared reluctant to make large bets before the central bank’s announcement. A clear shift in policy guidance could move markets sharply, especially in sectors that tend to be most exposed to changes in rates.

The day’s trading is likely to hinge on the Fed’s language as much as the decision itself, with Wall Street searching for direction after weeks of uncertainty about the pace and timing of any future policy changes.