Stock Futures Slip, GameStop Eyes Bitcoin, and CVS Makes a Comeback: Key Market Updates

The stock market opened with some uncertainty on Friday, February 14, 2025, as investors reacted to a mix of financial headlines, policy shifts, and corporate decisions. While stock futures dipped, the broader market remained resilient, supported by strong sector performance and evolving company strategies.

Stock Market Declines Amid Trade Policy Shifts

Investors woke up to slightly lower stock futures following new trade policy updates from President Donald Trump. S&P 500 futures slipped 0.2 percent, while Dow Jones and Nasdaq 100 futures dropped 0.3 percent each. Despite this minor decline, the market remained on track for a positive week. The S&P 500 had gained 1.5 percent, the Dow Jones was up nearly 1 percent, and the Nasdaq led with a 2 percent increase.

A key factor driving market caution is Trump’s proposed “reciprocal tariffs” plan, aimed at countering foreign nations that impose higher tariffs or unfair value-added taxes on U.S. exports. While these tariffs will not take effect immediately, the government is expected to finalize details in the next six weeks. Businesses with global operations are closely monitoring how these changes could impact trade relationships.

GameStop Explores Cryptocurrency Investment

GameStop is once again in the spotlight, this time for reportedly exploring investments in bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Sources who spoke to CNBC indicated that the company is considering crypto as a viable financial asset.

Speculation grew after GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen was seen with Michael Saylor, the executive chairman of MicroStrategy, a company known for holding the largest bitcoin reserves among publicly traded firms. Saylor’s well-documented enthusiasm for digital assets added to the belief that GameStop may be considering a major crypto strategy.

Investors responded positively, with GameStop’s stock surging in extended trading. If the company moves forward with a crypto pivot, it could mark a significant shift, positioning the company at the crossroads of digital assets and retail investing.

Retailers Scaling Back DEI Commitments

Major retailers Walmart and Target are reportedly reducing their commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. While these programs were initially designed to provide opportunities for underrepresented businesses, recent reports indicate that some large companies are pulling back on their support.

For small businesses, particularly Black-owned brands, these cutbacks could present serious challenges. Malaika Jones, CEO of fragrance brand Brown Girl Jane, expressed concerns about the shift, emphasizing that reduced support from major retailers makes it difficult for smaller brands to thrive. Industry experts warn that this trend could reverse progress made in recent years toward increasing diversity in retail.

CVS Health Stages a Strong Comeback

After a challenging 2024, CVS Health is making an impressive recovery. The company’s stock has surged 45 percent since the start of 2025, significantly outpacing competitors in the healthcare and retail pharmacy sector.

Market analysts attribute this rebound to three factors: strategic store closures that cut costs, leadership under a new CEO who has improved operational efficiency, and a strong earnings outlook that has helped restore investor confidence. Financial analyst Michael Cherny of Leerink Partners expressed optimism about the company’s future, noting that CVS is well-positioned to regain momentum after last year’s struggles.

Market Outlook: A Mix of Challenges and Opportunities

Despite early stock market declines, the broader outlook remains largely positive. GameStop’s potential move into crypto, Trump’s trade tariff proposals, shifting DEI policies, and CVS’s resurgence are shaping market sentiment.

As policy updates and corporate decisions continue to unfold, investors are watching these developments closely to gauge their long-term impact. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining how these changes influence investment trends throughout 2025.