🔔 Before the Bell: U.S. stock futures are slightly higher this morning as markets head into the final Federal Reserve meeting of the year, with investors largely expecting a rate cut, currently priced at an 88% probability. 

Last week’s gains across all major indexes set a constructive tone, while today’s calendar remains quiet ahead of major earnings later in the week. 

📊 In corporate news, Netflix’s proposed $82 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery’s TV and film assets is facing significant regulatory and industry pushback, adding uncertainty to one of the year’s biggest potential deals. 

Globally, Japan’s economy contracted more than expected in Q3, complicating the backdrop ahead of next week’s Bank of Japan decision, while China’s November trade surplus surged as exports rebounded strongly despite a sharp 29% drop in shipments to the U.S. 

🛢️ Oil prices are holding near two-week highs as expectations of a Fed rate cut and geopolitical developments continue to support crude demand and tighten supply outlooks.