U.S. stock futures rose on Thursday as signs of easing inflation boosted expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut this year. During regular trading on Wednesday, the Dow and S&P 500 indices rose by 0.61% and 0.38%, respectively, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite edged up by 0.03%. Seven out of 11 S&P sectors ended the session with gains, led by financials, energy, and technology companies. The increase followed the latest Consumer Price Index report, which confirmed that U.S. inflation is easing to more normal levels, giving the Fed room to potentially lower rates soon. Investors are now awaiting U.S. retail sales data on Thursday for further guidance. In extended trading, shares of Cisco Systems jumped more than 5% on better-than-expected quarterly results. Ulta Beauty also rose by 14% after Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway acquired a stake in the cosmetics company. Nike shares climbed 3.4% after Bill Ackman's Pershing Square fund announced an investment in the sneaker giant.