Budget Bill Boosts US Stocks

U.S. stocks are likely to start higher on Thursday due to increased confidence from the smooth passage of a budget bill in the House. Investors remain cautious ahead of Friday's non-farm payrolls report, which could influence a potential rate hike in June. Recently released tech earnings reports have received a negative reaction, which may slow down the tech sector's growth. On Wednesday, the markets declined slightly as the Job Openings & Labor Turnover Survey indicated an increase in job openings for April. The Dow Jones and S&P 500 remained negative throughout the day, while the Nasdaq was largely lower. Consumer staples and energy stocks were the worst performers, while tech and consumer discretionary stocks saw gains.