5 Things You Should Know Before the Stock Market Opens

Fellow PC maker Dell(DELL) on Tuesday posted fiscal fiscal first-quarter results that fell short of analysts' expectations on both the top and bottom lines.

Dell also provided second-quarter revenue guidance below analysts' views. Dell predicts revenue of between $14.69 billion and $15 billion; analysts are looking for sales of $15.42 billion.

Ford(F) received its second "investment grade" credit rating on Tuesday; Moody's lifted the rating from junk to Baa3, investment grade with a stable outlook.

The upgrade allows the automaker to reclaim assets it mortgaged six years ago. Key among the assets was the Ford's symbolic blue oval insignia.

Fitch upgraded Ford last month.

American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) , Big Lots(BLI) , Hormel Foods(HRL) and Sycamore Networks(SCMR) report earnings before Wednesday's opening bell.

-- Written by Joseph Woelfel

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