Finance

Brent crude prices jumped above $110 per barrel while U.S. crude topped $100, marking one of the most volatile periods for energy markets since the COVID-19 pandemic. Investors remain concerned that ongoing military actions in the Persian Gulf will lead to long-term disruptions and a punishing wave of global inflation.

The yield on the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note surged to 4.4% in late March 2026, its highest level since the previous summer. This upward shift reflects a market factoring in stickier inflation and a reduced likelihood of interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve for the remainder of the year.

The Nasdaq Composite fell deeper into correction territory, finishing more than 13% below its October peak as investors reassessed the valuations of artificial intelligence hardware. Heavyweights such as Nvidia, Meta, and Alphabet faced additional headwinds from high oil prices and specific court rulings regarding social media impact.

Bitcoin and Ether prices dropped significantly as over $300 million in long positions were liquidated following reports of increased Middle East turmoil. While some institutional deals provided minor support, retail investors have largely driven a widespread sell-off, leaving major digital assets well below their yearly starting points.

Wall Street analysts project that first-quarter earnings growth for the S&P 500 will reach 14%, even as inflation concerns and energy price spikes weigh on valuations. This robust earnings acceleration is expected to be a primary driver for any potential market recovery as the year progresses.