Finance

Crude oil prices retreated from their recent highs after political announcements suggested a pause in potential escalation in the Middle East. While Brent crude remains elevated above $100 per barrel, fears over major energy transport disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have eased slightly, providing brief relief to the broader markets.

Technology and semiconductor shares stabilized following reports that OpenAI expects its annualized revenue run-rate to reach or exceed $70 billion by the end of the year. This fresh data helped calm investor anxieties that had mounted following conflicting reports of a revenue shortfall.

Delta Air Lines reported its third-quarter financial results, revealing an earnings miss that weighed on its stock. Analysts noted that despite strong overall travel demand and robust pricing power, the carrier struggled against rising fuel costs that have continued to pressure the wider aviation sector.