Finance

Oil prices have experienced significant fluctuations following military engagements between U.S. and Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz. While benchmark Brent crude briefly exceeded $100 per barrel due to supply concerns, prices later moderated as diplomatic statements suggested a tenuous ceasefire remains in effect.

The Nasdaq's strong performance is being fueled by robust demand for chipmakers and heavy capital expenditure in artificial intelligence infrastructure. Major semiconductor firms like Micron and Qualcomm saw notable gains, while large tech companies indicated they expect to nearly double their AI-related spending through 2026.

U.S. Treasury yields remained elevated Friday, with the 10-year note holding near 4.39% as investors adjusted to persistent inflationary pressures. The combination of a resilient labor market and rising energy costs has led many analysts to predict that the Federal Reserve will maintain current interest rates for a longer period than previously anticipated.