U.S. Stock Futures Are Lower With The Back And Forth of Geopolitical Issues Impacting Markets

U.S. stock futures are lower:  The back and forth of geopolitical issues are impacting markets as the primary equity futures are down following yesterday’s rally.  Retail sales for January were 3.8% versus consensus of 2.0% and ex-vehicles & gas  3.8% compared to 0.6% estimate.  Treasury rates inched higher post report and futures remained in negative territory.   Uncertainty related to tensions between Russian and Ukraine are anticipated to continue to drive markets today.  Global energy prices are holding steady in early trading.  European markets are trading mixed and Asian markets closed higher.