US stock futures advanced on Thursday as investors digested the Federal Reserve’s latest policy decision. The Fed delivered a widely expected 25 basis point rate cut on Wednesday, while signaling two more reductions this year but only one in 2026, countering market bets on two or three cuts next year. Chair Jerome Powell struck a cautious tone, framing the move as “risk management.” Traders now turn to upcoming inflation and labor market data for clues on the future policy path. In corporate news, Cracker Barrel tumbled more than 9% in after-hours trade following weaker-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings. During Wednesday’s session, the Dow gained 0.57%, while the S&P 500 slipped 0.1% and the Nasdaq lost 0.33%. Sector-wise, financials, consumer staples and materials outperformed, whereas technology, industrials and consumer discretionary lagged.