Stock Futures Suggest Cautious Opening

By Ieva M. Augstums

The stock market is searching for some direction as investors await more clues about the economy.

U.S. stock futures were little changed Tuesday, while markets around the world were modestly higher.

No major economic releases are expected but investors are watching this week's G8 summit, starting Wednesday, to see what leaders including President Barack Obama say about the economy.

They're also awaiting the start of second-quarter earnings reports.

Oil remains near $64 a barrel, down sharply from last week's highs. The drop in the price of crude has sent stocks falling as investors anticipate that a weaker world economy will mean less demand for energy.

Dow Jones Industrial Average futures were up 7, or 0.1%, at 8,284, while the broader S&P 500 index futures were up 1.3, or 0.2%, to 896.80. Nasdaq 100 index futures rose 6, or 0.4%, to 1,447.