US stock index futures were little changed on Tuesday as crude oil hovered near its highest in six weeks, while investor attention turned to a slate of key corporate earnings and the Federal Reserve's interest-rate decision this week.


The Fed is widely expected to hold rates steady on Wednesday following an increase last month, though markets are pricing in at least two more hikes by mid-2027 as key inflation indicators remain elevated amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

"While we don't expect a rate move this week, we wouldn't be against a ?hike even though we're not convinced of its urgency," said John Velis, head of Americas Strategy at BNY.

"We think maintaining credibility is paramount for the Fed, and as (Fed Chair Kevin) Warsh likes to remind us, the inflation target has been exceeded for well over 60 straight months."

Crude oil prices were slightly higher on Tuesday after falling in the previous session, with Brent crude near its highest level since late April.

At 05:17 a.m. ET, Dow E-minis were up 70 points, or 0.14%, S&P 500 E-minis were up 3.75 points, or 0.05%, and Nasdaq 100 E-minis were up 2 ?points, or 0.01%.