"Earnings Deluge Dampens US Futures: Stock Market Update"

US futures slipped as investors weighed the start of earnings season and the prospects for a US breakthrough in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Bank of America reported a 10% rise in profit, while Lockheed Martin, Johnson & Johnson, and United Airlines are among the companies reporting third-quarter results. The Middle East conflict continues to weigh on the market, with rising geopolitical tensions potentially driving a global recession. Oil prices steadied as the US intensified diplomatic efforts and hopes grew for eased sanctions on Venezuela. In economic news, September retail sales showed stronger-than-expected growth, offering a snapshot of consumer spending amid the Federal Reserve's interest rate hiking campaign.