What to Know Before the Stock Market Opens — December 4, 2025

U.S. stock futures opened mostly flat Thursday, with major indexes such as the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average hovering just under record highs. Investors are awaiting new economic data — including weekly jobless‑claims and a key inflation reading — that could shape the upcoming Federal Reserve’s rate decision next week. Meanwhile, the European Commission opened an antitrust investigation into Meta Platforms over changes to its WhatsApp AI‑policy — a move that could block other AI firms from accessing WhatsApp users directly. In company news, Salesforce beat earnings expectations, driven by strength in its AI‑powered “Agentforce” platform. The firm also raised its full‑year outlook, sending shares up in premarket trading. On the merger front, both Paramount Skydance and Netflix reportedly sweetened their offers for Warner Bros. Discovery, with Paramount raising its breakup‑fee commitment — a signal of confidence despite anticipated regulatory scrutiny. Lastly, discount retailers are drawing investor interest: Dollar General, Five Below and Dollar Tree all posted strong quarterly results, reflecting continued consumer demand for low‑cost options. Dollar General, in particular, confirmed plans to open 575 new stores next year. #StockMarket #Investing #WallStreet #EconomicData #SlimScan #GrowthStocks #CANSLIM