What happened to US stock futures after the midterms?
As results came in on election night, Democrats were projected to win the House and, according to Fox News Decision Desk and CNBC, the Senate as well. Futures fell as the “blue wave” grew: Fox Business reported Nasdaq-100 futures down 2.2%, S&P 500 futures down 1.3% and Dow futures down 0.8%, and NBC News said Nasdaq-100 futures were down as much as 2.5% at one point. Reports then noted futures coming off their worst levels, and by about 12:35 pm Malaysia time on 4 November live quotes showed US futures had turned from red to green.
Nasdaq 100 on 4 November 2026 (5-minute chart, Malaysia time)
Chart: Dexter Chia, TradingView (IG US Tech 100 Cash, which tracks Nasdaq-100 futures)
Why did futures fall in the first place?
- AI and data-centre worries: NBC News and Fortune reported investors fearing that a Democratic Congress could bring tighter rules on AI and data centres, a key driver of this year’s rally.
- Tech was already weak: NBC News noted the Nasdaq-100 was already in a correction before the vote, so the sell-off hit the most crowded trades first.
- Uncertainty: markets dislike not knowing the result. As the outcome became clearer, part of that uncertainty faded.
Why could futures turn green so quickly?
The President does not change in a midterm. Donald Trump remains in office until January 2029 and can still veto bills, so big new laws now need deals between the White House and a Democratic Congress. Investors often read that kind of split government (“gridlock”) as limiting sweeping policy changes in either direction. Overnight futures also trade thinly, so moves can swing quickly before the regular session. See our explainer on US vs Malaysia elections and what midterms mean.
What does this mean for Malaysian investors?
- Futures are not the final word: the US cash market opens at 10:30 pm Malaysia time (US winter time). See US market hours in Malaysia time.
- Expect volatility in AI and tech names while investors digest what a Democratic Congress means for regulation.
- Avoid chasing overnight swings. Stick to your plan and position sizes; a red-to-green flip can reverse again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did US stock futures fall after the 2026 midterm results?
Yes. As Democrats gained, Nasdaq-100 futures fell more than 2% at the worst point, with S&P 500 and Dow futures also lower, before the losses narrowed.
When did US futures turn green?
Live quotes showed US futures turning from red to green at about 12:35 pm Malaysia time on 4 November 2026.
What time does the US stock market open in Malaysia?
At 10:30 pm Malaysia time during US winter time (from early November to March).
Sources: Fox Business, NBC News, Fortune, CNBC (3–4 November 2026). The turn to green is from live quotes at about 12:35 pm Malaysia time and may change before the US open.
Written by Dexter Chia, licensed dealer’s representative (R336) at Malacca Securities (M+ Global). For general information only; not a recommendation to buy or sell any security.
