Finance

Nvidia reported a blowout first quarter with revenue reaching $81.6 billion, nearly double the previous year's figures due to massive AI infrastructure spending. Despite exceeding analyst expectations with adjusted earnings of $1.87 per share, the stock saw a muted reaction as investors weighed the high bar for future growth against broader macroeconomic concerns.

Kevin Warsh has been sworn in as the new Federal Reserve Chair, taking over during a period where policymakers are closely monitoring persistent inflation and geopolitical tensions. While the Fed recently held rates steady between 3.5% and 3.75%, market participants generally expect rates to remain on hold through much of 2026 with potential hikes in early 2027 if inflation stays above target.

Oil prices showed signs of stabilization at the end of the week, with Brent crude trading near $108.76 per barrel on May 22. Markets have been pressured by the ongoing conflict with Iran, though recent optimism regarding potential mediation has helped pull prices back from earlier highs above $110 per barrel.