Russell 2000 heads into Friday as Brent falls to USD 102.53
Published on 10/09/2026 at 13:08 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWSKey points in brief
- The Russell 2000 closed at 2,794 points on October 8, up 0.0 percent.
- Oil prices and elevated Treasury yields shaped Thursday's trading, while yields eased after a strong 30-year bond auction.
- Russell 2000 futures were up 0.3 percent at 4:00 a.m. ET on October 9.
- The University of Michigan's preliminary October sentiment data is due at 10:00 a.m. ET on October 9.
The Russell 2000 heads into Friday after closing at 2,794 points on October 8, a gain of 0.0 percent, as oil and Treasury yields swung sharply during the session. AP reported that the small-cap index added 0.92 points, while Brent crude moved above USD 104 before retreating.
Oil and yields shape the Friday setup
Higher long-term yields and energy prices have pressured smaller companies this week. CNBC cited Truist Advisory Services Chief Investment Officer Keith Lerner, who linked the Russell 2000's recent weakness to rising long-term Treasury yields.
Bond demand later improved the tone. The 30-year Treasury auction drew solid demand, and the 10-year yield fell to 5.22 percent by early Friday, according to Saxo. Brent crude traded at USD 102.53 after President Donald Trump said the United States would not attack Iran before the midterm elections, Bloomberg via Swissinfo reported.
Futures point higher before the open
Russell 2000 futures were up 0.3 percent at 4:00 a.m. ET on October 9, while S&P 500 futures rose 0.3 percent and Nasdaq futures gained 0.8 percent, according to Asianet News.
What comes next
The University of Michigan's preliminary October consumer sentiment reading is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. ET on October 9. Forecasts cited by Investing.com call for a reading of 47.5 versus 48.1 in September. Boston Federal Reserve President Susan Collins is scheduled to speak at 3:00 p.m. ET, with remarks on inflation and monetary policy also on the agenda.

