Finance

U.S. markets displayed a mixed performance today, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq rising 0.9% and the S&P 500 gaining 0.3%. In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.2% as financial and defensive sectors faced continued selling pressure.

Crude oil futures retreated on Tuesday as market participants grew hopeful that diplomatic efforts could lead to a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. West Texas Intermediate fell over 2% to trade near $89 per barrel, easing some concerns regarding global energy supply disruptions.

April trade data released today showed a 1.2% reduction in the U.S. trade deficit to $55.9 billion. Exports were bolstered by petroleum products due to geopolitical tensions, while imports rose as American firms brought in electronics to expand data center infrastructure.