U.S. stock futures edged higher Wednesday as investors awaited January employment data that could shape Federal Reserve rate decisions. The report follows warnings that AI adoption may curb job growth despite productivity gains, with economists forecasting 66,000 new positions - up from December's 50,000. Gold rose 0.4% to $5,047/oz amid cooling retail sales data.

Ford disclosed a $900 million charge from delayed tariff relief on Chinese components, contributing to a record $11.1 billion quarterly loss. However, shares gained after-hours as the automaker projected stronger-than-expected $9 billion annual operating income. CFO Sherry House called the tariff delay "unexpected," stemming from last-minute 2025 regulatory changes.

Warner Bros. Discovery faces pressure as activist investor Ancora Holdings reportedly urges rejection of Netflix's acquisition offer. The $200 million stake holder prefers Paramount's rival $108 billion bid for the entire company. Meanwhile, Brent crude climbed 1.2% to $69.64/barrel despite lingering Middle East tensions.