US equity futures slightly softer. European equities opened firmer, while Asian markets were mixed with South Korea and Hong Kong outperforming. Trump to decide within two weeks on potential Iran strike, extending earlier timeline amid reported backchannel talks between US envoy Witkoff and Iran's foreign minister. Japan’s May core inflation came in above expectations, keeping BOJ tightening speculation in play, while China held loan prime rates steady. BoE kept rates steady while SNB and Norges Bank cut rates; ECB bulletin released. Japan’s Akazawa downplayed July 9 as deadline for US trade talks, mirroring tone from EU officials as negotiations drag on.

Companies Mentioned: GMS Inc, Home Depot, QXO, Inc, Paramount Global, Ares Management Corp.