Finance

Global energy markets are approaching a non-linear adjustment phase as Brent crude prices fluctuate near $100 per barrel following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. While potential progress in U.S.-Iran diplomatic talks has provided some recent relief, analysts warn that sustained high fuel costs are already impacting operating margins for major retailers like Walmart and Costco.

Benchmark bond yields retreated slightly to end the week, with the 10-year Treasury note settling at 4.56% and the 30-year yield falling from a 19-year high of 5.2%. This easing of borrowing costs has provided a reprieve for growth-oriented equities, although persistent inflation fears related to global energy shocks continue to weigh on long-term fixed-income sentiment.

The technology sector remains the second-best performing industry of 2026, driven by a massive rally in computer hardware and semiconductor stocks such as Intel, which has gained over 225% this year. However, the sector is experiencing a significant performance gap, as software-focused firms like HubSpot and Workday have seen their valuations drop by nearly 40-50% since the start of the year.