Apple helps tech sector soar U.S. stock markets are seen opening a touch lower Tuesday, consolidating after more strong gains Monday, led by the tech-heavy Nasdaq index which posted another record close. By 6:30 AM (1030 GMT), the Dow futures contract was down 44 points or 0.2%, while the S&P 500 futures contract was down 0.3% and the Nasdaq 100 futures contract was 0.3% lower. Apple set an all-time high Monday, and the iPhone maker is now a few share points away from registering a two trillion dollar market capitalization. The share price to look out for is $467.77, before the company undergoes a 4-for-1 share split, compared with Monday's $435.75 closing level. Helping the tone were reports the White House was considering acting on its own to boost unemployment benefits, with the stalemate in Washington meaning many citizens are currently missing out on $600 a week payments.