"Dow and Nasdaq Dip Ahead of Fed Minutes, Bitcoin and Stocks Off to Rocky Start"

U.S. stock markets opened lower for a second consecutive day, with the Nasdaq Composite dropping 0.9%. Investors are anticipating potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, possibly starting in March, despite recent tech stock pullbacks. Pharma stocks like Eli Lilly showed resilience with gains. Treasury yields hit 4%, and oil prices increased due to Middle East tensions. Meanwhile, Bitcoin's price dropped below $43,000, and the yen weakened after Japan's earthquake. Upcoming Fed meeting minutes and economic data are being closely watched for future market direction.