Finance

Global energy markets saw a sharp drop in oil prices, with international benchmark Brent crude falling toward the $80 per barrel threshold. The downturn followed announcements regarding positive developments in Middle Eastern negotiations, which significantly calmed inflation anxieties and helped lower Treasury yields.

Shares of Palantir Technologies soared by double digits following a stellar second-quarter earnings report that exceeded Wall Street estimates. The strong software performance provided critical validation for the commercial expansion of artificial intelligence, helping to reignite tech sector enthusiasm.

Caterpillar shares advanced significantly after reporting better-than-expected profit growth fueled by robust infrastructure demands. Massive ongoing investments in data center construction throughout North America drove a 35% year-over-year surge in the company's construction equipment division.