E-mini S&P 500 futures started the week moving higher, briefly touching the 7,000 level before closing near 6,980, up 30 handles. The rally, which began late last week, was driven by Fed-friendly job and inflation data that kept rate cut expectations on the table. Markets are currently pricing in two 25 bps cuts in 2026. Volatility moved inversely to the rally, trending lower ahead of upcoming data releases, including ADP employment numbers and retail sales.