US equities finished higher overnight as investors returned to tech stocks despite escalating Middle East hostilities, with the Nasdaq leading gains. Treasury yields climbed on renewed inflation concerns, the dollar strengthened broadly, and both oil and gold rallied on supply fears and safe-haven demand.
📊 Equities
US equity markets finished higher overnight, with investors returning to technology stocks despite the continued escalation of hostilities in the Middle East. The Nasdaq once again led the gains, while the broader S&P 500 and Dow Jones also posted solid advances. The Dow rose 0.74% to 52,224, the S&P 500 gained 0.89% to 7,509, and the Nasdaq climbed 1.29% to 25,837.
🛢️ Oil
Energy markets remained firmly in focus, with oil prices extending their recent rally after tensions between the US and Iran intensified further. Additional supply concerns emerged after threats from Houthi forces in Yemen reportedly forced Saudi oil tankers to turn back in the Red Sea, adding to fears of further disruption to global energy flows. Brent rose 2.47% to $91.42, while WTI gained 2.47% to $84.52.
🥇 Gold
Gold also enjoyed a strong session, rebounding sharply as investors sought the safety of traditional haven assets. Gold gained 1.76% to $4,076.30.
💵 FX & Bonds
Bond markets moved lower as Treasury yields climbed on renewed inflation concerns, while the US dollar strengthened against most major currencies, with USDJPY notably hitting fresh multi-decade highs. The USD Index rose 0.25% to 101.20, the 2-year Treasury yield rose 5.5 bps to 4.262%, and the 10-year yield rose 3.6 bps to 4.628%.
| Instrument | Change | Last |
|---|---|---|
| Dow | +0.74% | 52,224 |
| S&P 500 | +0.89% | 7,509 |
| Nasdaq | +1.29% | 25,837 |
| USD Index | +0.25% | 101.20 |
| Treasury 2Y | +5.5 bps | 4.262% |
| Treasury 10Y | +3.6 bps | 4.628% |
| Brent | +2.47% | $91.42 |
| WTI | +2.47% | $84.52 |
| Gold | +1.76% | $4,076.30 |
📌 Today’s Focus
Attention now turns to a quieter economic calendar, although market participants are expected to remain heavily focused on geopolitical developments throughout the day. UK inflation data will be closely watched during the European session, while US crude oil inventory figures will provide further insight into the current supply backdrop.
European Session
🔹 UK – CPI Data
US Session
🔹 US – Crude Oil Inventory Data