U.S. stock index futures were mixed on Wednesday as investors approached a crucial Federal Reserve meeting and earnings announcements from major technology firms. The Federal Reserve is scheduled to announce its interest rate decision on April 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. This meeting is particularly significant as it is expected to be Jerome Powell's final press conference as chair of the Federal Reserve. While analysts predict no changes to interest rates, they will be closely monitoring Powell's remarks for insights into future policy direction, especially given ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. In Asian markets, South Korea's Kospi rose by 0.8%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 1.7%, and China's Shanghai Composite advanced 0.7%, while Taiwan's Taiex fell by 0.6%. Investors remain cautious as they anticipate Powell's potentially hawkish tone amidst uncertainties regarding his successor and the Fed's independence.