Stock futures inch higher after major averages close lower, S&P 500 retreats from record

Stock futures inch higher after major averages close lower, S&P 500 retreats from record

Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

U.S. stock index futures advanced during overnight trading, after the major averages finished Tuesday's session in the red.

Futures contracts tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 27 points. S&P 500 futures rose 0.05%, while Nasdaq 100 futures were up 0.04%.

The major averages pulled back from record highs to close in negative territory during regular trading. The Dow slid 97 points, or 0.3%, breaking a two-day winning streak. The S&P hit a record high, but retreated during afternoon trading and ultimately closed 0.1% lower for its first negative session in four. The Nasdaq Composite declined 0.05%, also snapping a three-day winning streak.

"There are lots of reasons to be excited about the months ahead, and we're generally optimistic for this year," noted Lindsey Bell, chief investment strategist at Ally Invest. "Stocks' momentum is strong, no doubt about that. But the market may be ready to take a breather as investors digest all the good news, determine how much of that is priced in and weigh it against uncertain risks like inflation," she added.

Strong economic data “” including March's jobs report that handily beat expectations “” has fueled stocks' ascent in recent