Major U.S. equity indexes ended the week higher, supported by tentative signs of easing tensions in the Middle East. The Nasdaq Composite led gains, marking its strongest weekly performance since November, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.36% and 2.96%, respectively. Small-cap stocks also delivered solid returns. After a weak start on Monday, markets rallied sharply midweek as President Trump signaled a potential pullback in U.S. military involvement in Iran. However, sentiment briefly faltered following a Wednesday night address that lacked a clear de-escalation timeline, lifting oil prices and pressuring equities early Thursday. Markets later stabilized, with indexes closing the week in positive territory. U.S. Treasury yields declined compared to the previous week, with comments from Fed Chair Powell helping to ease inflation concerns and support fixed income. Economic data was mixed, with employment figures showing uneven trends, while consumer confidence and manufacturing activity improved modestly. Globally, the STOXX Europe 600 gained 3.92%, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 1.7%. The U.S. dollar weakened over the week. Gold posted strong gains, and Bitcoin edged higher, appearing to find support around $66,000.
Have a great weekend and Happy Easter
Charles & Syz Research Lab