Finance

Despite Intel reporting quarterly results and revenue forecasts that surpassed consensus estimates, its shares fell nearly 8% on Friday. This downward pressure extended into the broader semiconductor sector, dragged lower by building investor anxiety over the massive capital expenditures required for artificial intelligence without immediate clear profit returns. The broader semiconductor sector mirrored this slide, contributing heavily to the Nasdaq's losses.

Global energy markets saw a retreat on Friday as Brent crude futures dropped nearly 4% to settle at $96.78 per barrel, cooling off from a climb past $102 earlier in the week. The market eased following media reports that Pakistan and Iran are looking to navigate a path toward renewed discussions with the United States. Despite the single-day pullback, domestic crude oil futures still closed the week up significantly due to lingering geopolitical friction in the Middle East.

Spot gold prices consolidated around $4,050 per troy ounce to close out the week, hovering below recent highs. Investors continue to evaluate escalating geopolitical risks and energy-driven inflation fears against the likelihood of higher-for-longer monetary policy. Market participants are keeping a close watch on the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting for further guidance on interest rates.