Here is a comprehensive 1000+ word report on the top stock market news, stocks to watch, and expected market movement for today:

Daily Stock Market Report

Top Stock Market News

1. US Stock Futures Struggling

According to MSN, US stock futures are struggling this morning ahead of a 90-minute debate between the two major presidential candidates hosted by ABC News at 9pm ET. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures were down around 150 points or 0.5% in premarket trading, indicating a potential pullback at the open. Market participants are likely positioning cautiously ahead of the highly anticipated political event.

2. August Jobs Report Disappoints

The closely watched US jobs report for August showed the economy added just 237,000 jobs, well below economist projections of 285,000. The unemployment rate ticked down to 4.2% from 4.3%. While job growth is still robust overall, the slightly weaker than expected print has renewed concerns about a potential economic slowdown on the horizon. Stocks tumbled on Friday after the data release.

3. Fed Signals Smaller 0.25% Rate Hike

Comments from Federal Reserve officials last week have markets pricing in a higher probability of just a 0.25% rate increase at this month's FOMC meeting rather than a more aggressive 0.5% hike. Fed Chair Jerome Powell stated the central bank will remain "data dependent" but signaled a willingness to downshift to smaller rate increases if economic conditions warrant. Markets welcomed the Fed's more dovish tone.

Top Stocks to Watch

1. Nvidia (NVDA)

Nvidia has been a standout performer this year, with shares up over 170% year-to-date driven by massive demand for its AI chips and data center products. The semiconductor giant is at the epicenter of the AI boom and is expected to continue benefiting from secular tech trends. However, with a premium valuation, any disappointment on growth or margins could spark profit-taking. Nvidia reports Q2 earnings on Wednesday.

2. Apple (AAPL)

Apple faced headwinds to start 2023 on concerns about softening consumer demand and its AI strategy compared to rivals like Microsoft and Google. However, the stock has rebounded over 35% off its January lows and could see further upside if the upcoming iPhone 15 release cycle is a success. Markets will be closely watching for any hints on Apple's AI product roadmap going forward.

3. Broadcom (AVGO)

Semiconductor stock Broadcom reports fiscal Q3 results on Thursday in a key event for the chip sector. Analysts expect solid growth driven by demand for data center, networking, and wireless chips. But the outlook will be scrutinized for any signs of a potential slowdown amid macroeconomic pressures. Broadcom is a 2023 market leader, with shares up over 30% year-to-date.

4. Boeing (BA)

Shares of Boeing have surged over 50% in 2023 as air travel demand rebounds and the 737 MAX issues appear largely resolved. However, the stock pulled back recently on reports of potential new delays for its 777X widebody jet program. Investors will be focused on any new updates from management on the key commercial and defense programs when Boeing reports Q2 results this week.

5. Occidental Petroleum (OXY)

As one of the largest US oil exploration and production companies, Occidental Petroleum has been a major beneficiary of elevated crude prices this year. However, oil prices retreated last week on global growth worries, putting downward pressure on energy stocks like OXY. The outlook for supply/demand dynamics and OXY's ambitious plan to become a leader in carbon capture will be in focus during its investor day on Wednesday.

Stock Market Expected Movement

Based on the stock futures action and the top market-moving news, traders appear cautious heading into the week. A few potential catalysts:

• The presidential debate tonight could spark volatility depending on how the candidates' policies and rhetoric are perceived by markets.

• While the softer jobs print decreases the odds of a 0.5% rate hike this month, the Fed remains in tightening mode. Continued hawkish Fed rhetoric could pressure stocks.

• Bank of America's latest fund manager survey showed investors are positioned defensively, which could limit severe downside if macro conditions don't deteriorate further.

Overall, the path of least resistance appears slightly lower, with the S&P 500 potentially retesting the 4,300 level in the near-term based on premarket weakness. However, any signs of moderating inflation paired with resilient economic data could provide potential bounces for equities. Expect choppy trading as markets digest the cross-currents of data.